Repetitive and prolonged exposure to trauma, coupled with long hours and shift work, can leave critical care nurses grappling with mental health challenges, if workplaces fail to provide adequate support.

“Being faced with trauma on a frequent basis, constantly being 'on' and prepared for danger triggers our survival response -- our fight or flight -- and this can stay switched on or overly active, impacting mental health,” says psychologist, Phoebe Rogers.

“Being exposed to trauma, without skills to switch off, can begin to shift how critical care nurses see the world.

“It can impact our sense of the world feeling good and safe; it can begin to impact their sleep, their ability to relax and switch off, and these events can stay with them outside of work.”

“Traumatic events can result in loss and death and unfortunately, some staff can carry feelings of guilt or blame, despite doing their best and loss being outside of their control.

“Also, there are feelings of responsibility and duty that go with the job.”

To mitigate the risk, Ms Rogers says it’s critical that employers are aware of these risks and take active steps to support staff.

“Staff being able to have appropriate rest between shifts, normalising reactions to witnessing traumatic events, and having support and help available, and a general culture of warmth and care,” says Ms Rogers.

Prevention and early detection of mental health struggles are both key factors in preventing major mental health battles down the track, she said.

“I think mental health treatment is often sought when the crisis happens, for example. a person is struggling to keep working and just can't.

“Seeking help when there are early signs is important, including changes in mood, sleep, irritability, sense of competence and confidence. “

Often, said Ms Rogers, signs lurk under the surface.

“We don't pay enough attention to the early warning signs; the longer the symptoms continue and burnout is experienced, treatment needed can be longer.”

Finding ways to release the emotional charge and energy of the fight/flight response from the body is really important, Ms Rogers said.

“This can be through movement, voice, music, yoga, and other bodily (somatic) practices.

“Allow yourself to express difficult feelings, cry, and release emotions, rather than simply forging on or distracting yourself.

“Start to identify your own list of warning symptoms such as changes in sleep, mood, feelings about work- and use these to seek help sooner rather than later.”

Ms Rogers said it’s important to prioritise your individual needs.

“Also, aim to find a workplace and culture that values your mental health, that has support available, that monitors staff shifts, and where you feel safe to talk about your experiences, and where help-seeking is encouraged.

“Do seek therapy from a trained clinician/psychologist who specialises in trauma, particularly those who work with health personnel and emergency services.”