One of the most beautiful aspects of the human experience is our individuality—our differences. Each of us carries a unique persona shaped by our personal histories and struggles, many of which we keep hidden. We carry our deep wounds internally, rarely allowing others to see them. Healthcare professionals are no different.
In healthcare, we are trained from novices to put our emotions, our individual beliefs, and even our problems to the side to better care for others. The patient’s needs come first, and we are taught that our well-being must come second. Over time, we learn to hide our true feelings, often wearing that emotional restriction as a badge of honor. In essence, we construct emotional silos, isolating ourselves from vulnerability, and we frequently forget one critical element—the bridge to escape horrific isolation.
This bridge is essential—not just for self-care but also for finding an outlet to process the deep emotional wounds from our past and present. Yet, culture perpetuates the belief that expressing emotions or seeking support is a sign of weakness. Venting is seen as unprofessional, and sharing your thoughts, feelings, or beliefs can be perceived as death to your healthcare career.
In essence, you must be strong, develop a thick skin, and carry an invisible shield that no one else can see. This self-imposed isolation disconnects us from others, including others experiencing similar situations. Over time, this isolation breeds loneliness, and in the worst cases, it can lead to depression, burnout, or even a life cut way too short.
Healthcare workers enter the profession to serve others, and most are content with the notion of putting others first. But it’s important to acknowledge that we, too, have feelings that deserve attention. Time has taught me, and sometimes the hard way, that emotional burdens shouldn’t be carried alone. If you or someone you know is having problems or thoughts of self-harm, please speak up and reach out. If confiding in a loved one appears too difficult, the Suicide Prevention Line is manned 24/7 for support. Call or text 988 to speak with someone for help.
Remember, a wounded soul doesn’t always look the same on everyone, and the weight the healthcare provider carries may be heavier than anyone realizes. They are human, too, and we can’t afford to lose one of them.