[bitten]

I work in a psych/detox ward and am newly sober. 6 months. I love my job and they love me. But I tend to get too emotionally involved. I do not cry in front of any patients, but have been working so much that i do not have time to use my own coping skills with my own life. I am debating resigning but at my age, (45) not sure where I would go, or what i would do. Seeing people overdose on a daily basis is not good for my mental health. Have lost way too many people. Now what?

[*woundedhealer*]

Hi Bitten,
I appreciate your compassion for the patients. That must be a heavy burden to carry. I was recently in a psyche ward, and was genuinely thankful for the techs and nurses that had genuine compassion for us. It made all the difference between enduring and enjoying my stay. Yes, I enjoyed my stay, because with the help of my Heavenly Father and my psychologist, I realized that I too have great compassion for those struggling with mental illness.
I know that you can talk to Jesus about your burdens and He will carry them for you.
Or, you can talk to us. :-)
*woundedhealer*

[Travelinglady]

Also, I suggest you find a person to talk to about your feelings, especially a trained professional. I know that health professionals often have such a person to help them to deal with their emotions. I, also, am glad that you care so much, but it is too much to carry that burden around. If you do share your feelings, then I think you'll be able to keep your job.

[CharactorAssassin]

I'm sorry I overdosed. I'm sorry I pulled off the electrodes. You took care of me. I survived. You helped and I helped my mother. Thank you.
Maybe you could do the disappearing act once in a while and let your co workers handle it while you get your own trauma resolved.
You are a strong person and you need your therapy most importantly.