Behind every patient’s journey toward recovery stands a nurse who has taken on the role of caregiver, advocate, and support system. The nurse/patient relationship is built on trust, empathy, and mutual respect. Nurses are often the first to greet patients as they walk through the door. They’re the last to say goodbye. This bond goes beyond medical care. It’s emotional support, a calming presence, and sometimes a hand to hold in moments of vulnerability.
This Thanksgiving, we want to say thank you to nurses everywhere. For the unseen moments, the long hours and sacrifices, and the unwavering dedication to patient care and well-being.
The Toll of the Nursing Profession
Nurses enter the profession for many reasons: to help people, to find fulfillment, and to grow personally and professionally.
Nurses are known for their resilience, yet the demands of the profession can take a toll. Long shifts, emotional outcomes, and the pressure to provide the best care possible can lead to physical and mental exhaustion. Many people who pursue nursing report fatigue, burnout, and a struggle to balance professional and personal lives, especially during recent years, when nurses have been on the frontline of unprecedented challenges. All of these impact nurses’ mental health.
Nurse burnout has reached alarming levels across the U.S., with November being the month with the highest. Long shifts, demanding patient loads, and the emotional weight of caring for others can take their toll on mental and physical health. Recognizing it is half the battle.
From there, it’s about support and action.
Supporting Nurses’ Mental Health
It’s important to remember that resources are available. When a quick breath or a day away isn’t enough, there are places to turn.
Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)
Many healthcare facilities offer EAPs that provide access to confidential counseling and support for work-related stress, personal issues, and emotional health. These programs often include referrals to mental health services, financial counseling, and legal assistance. Ask what’s available.
Mindfulness and Relaxation Apps
Apps like Headspace, Calm, and Insight Timer offer guided meditation and mindfulness exercises that can help nurses manage stress, improve sleep, and practice relaxation techniques. These tools are convenient, accessible, and fit even the busiest schedules.
Support Groups and Peer Networks
Talking with peers who understand the unique challenges of nursing can be invaluable. Support groups, either in-person or online, offer a space for nurses to share experiences, gain insights, and feel less isolated. Organizations like The American Nurses Association (ANA) provide resources for connecting with peer networks and other professional support services.
Crisis Text Line
For moments of acute stress, resources like the Crisis Text Line (text HOME to 741741) offer immediate support from trained crisis counselors. This free, 24/7 text line can be a helpful resource for nurses experiencing overwhelming stress or emotional fatigue.
Therapy and Counseling Services
Speaking with a licensed therapist can provide nurses with tools to cope with the emotional demands of their work. Some health plans offer discounted therapy sessions, and telehealth options make it easier than ever for nurses to access these services on their own time.
Ways to Appreciate a Nurse This Thanksgiving
While we can’t always ease the workload nurses carry, there are meaningful ways to show appreciation that go a long way:
- Send a Thank-You Note: A heartfelt note of appreciation can brighten a nurse’s day and remind them that their hard work is recognized. A simple “thank you” can be powerful.
- Offer to Help: If you have a nurse in your life, consider offering practical help, like preparing a meal, helping with errands, or even just lending an ear to listen.
- Raise Awareness: Share your appreciation on social media to recognize the incredible work nurses do. Use hashtags like #ThankYouNurses and #NurseAppreciation to spread gratitude and awareness.
Appreciating Nurses All Year Long
Nurse appreciation shouldn’t be confined to one season. Nurses play a critical role in healthcare, often putting the needs of others before their own.
So this Thanksgiving, let’s give thanks to the quiet heroes who make a difference every single day. To all the nurses who go above and beyond—thank you. Your work doesn’t go unnoticed, and we are grateful for everything you do to keep our communities healthy and safe.