Managing Stress

• Increases in irritability, impatience, crying, blaming, arguing, substance use (alcohol, drugs, tobacco), desire to be alone, anxiety, fear, anger, distrust, worry, sadness, frustration, uncertainty, resentment, guilt, confusion, startle response, headaches, stomach aches, other pains, worsening of chronic health problems
• New difficulties in giving or accepting help, finding pleasure, concentrating, and decision-making
• Increase/decrease in energy or activity levels, fatigue, and appetite
• Revisiting past trauma/PTSD – intrusive distressing memories, flashbacks, and memories*

*If feelings or symptoms worsen, affect ability to function, have wide swings, or are prolonged, seek advice from a mental health professional and know you can recover. Access AANA resources on how to find help.

If thoughts turn to harming yourself, call American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s HOTLINE: 800-273-TALK, veterans extension 1, or text FRONTLINE to 741741 to connect with a Crisis Counselor for 24/7 free support. If immediate harm is imminent, call 911.

AANA.com Resources

Adverse Medical Events/Critical Incidents

Burnout and Compassion Fatigue

Depression and Suicide

Peer Assistance

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder 

Sleep and Fatigue

Resident Wellness

Wellness in the Workplace

Podcasts

Wellness and Substance Use Disorder Educational Resources – See a variety of easy-to-listen-to-podcasts and videos

Videos

• View the CRNA/RRNA Well-being playlist, which features breathing techniques, stress relief through stretching from Jessica Switzman, MSN, CRNA, and how to cope from Cindy Farina, DNP, CRNA, CNE.
• Pennie Nichols, CRNA:
  • Box Breath: A Guided Mindfulness Practice
  • Breath Practice for Healthcare Providers on the Frontlines of COVID-19

CRNA Knowledge Network

• Streaming on-demand CEs. See the Well-being channel.

• 10 Percent Happier
• Fitbit
• Heroes Health Initiative