Understanding Manageable Stressors
Nurses face challenges that go beyond long shifts and demanding workloads—challenges that are felt deeply but rarely discussed. Many nurses experience blame, shame, or isolation in navigating these stressors alone. But you are not alone. These stressors are not personal failures; they are occupational risks that come with the profession. The problem is, these stressors haven’t always been recognized for what they are. Instead, many nurses assume they’re just burned out or not strong enough to handle the job. You are strong enough, and you can handle it!
With the insight of volunteer nurses, our research committee has identified four of the most common yet often unspoken stressors impacting nurses’ mental and physical health: Vicarious Trauma, Secondary Traumatic Stress, Compassion Fatigue, and Moral & Ethical Misalignment. Understanding these experiences won’t erase them, but it will give you the tools to recognize, navigate, and manage them in a way that supports your occupational well-being and personal wellness.
Click below to learn more about these four manageable stressors and what you can do about them.
Vicarious Trauma
The lasting impact of repeated exposure to patient trauma. A persistent psychological shift that alters worldview, identity, and sense of safety over time.
Secondary Traumatic Stress (STS)
A sudden stress response to indirect exposure to trauma.
Manifests similar to PTSD, with symptoms like hypervigilance, emotional withdrawal, and intrusive thoughts.
Compassion Fatigue
The emotional depletion caused by sustained caregiving. A temporary loss of empathy and emotional energy that can be reversed with recovery time.
Moral & Ethical Misalignment
When an individual’s moral or ethical values conflict with workplace realities. Leads to moral stress, distress, or injury, and potential erosion of professional integrity.
