Aged Cared Worker - Anxiety

[c0dy]

Hey guys, I’ve been in the sector as an AIN for nearly 7 years. I’m feeling very overwhelmed at the moment. As the current Covid-19 pandemic looms, I’m facing a lot of extra stress at work and finding it hard to relax after a challenging shift. My company is not using agency staff so we’ve been working short staffed but with the new guidelines we’re working under, it has made our workload increase. My workplace has become a bit toxic lately, understandably everyone is stressed. There has been a big breakdown in communication across all departments.Today one the housekeeping staff said we are running out of hand soap, santizer and face masks and we haven’t had any confirmed cases. This makes me worry as if we aren’t coping now how are we going to manage if there is a confirmed case. Is anyone else facing this kind of anxiety that works in the health sector?

[jemma09]

Hi c0dy!

Good on you for reaching out here and getting things off of your chest. It is a very hard time at the moment, especially for healthcare workers being at the frontline. I work in healthcare myself and I understand where you are coming from. It is something very new in comparison to the usual. I bet it must be hard to cool down after a challenging shift at work! Remember that you are doing an amazing job! You have also identified these areas in your workplace which shows you are an observant and dedicated worker. I recommend you keep up to date with the Australian government health website for COVID19. There is also a learning module on there which can give you some further information.

Can you approach your management to share your concerns regarding PPE availability and the high levels of stress in the workplace? You can perhaps discuss what their plans are to help you feel more prepared.

Take care of yourself and stay safe. I hope that you can find some information from your workplace. You are awesome! Wishing you calm thoughts and ease of your stress.

[MilkandHoney]

Hey c0dy

I'm a HCW as well, it certainly is a challenging time. I feel like I don't know really know what I'm going to have to deal with everytime I walk in the door! I agree with Jemma - I think it's important to discuss these concerns with your management. Maybe in a group meeting with other staff who share your concerns if that would make you feel more comfortable. That sucks re not using agency staff, only adding more stress during an already stressful time!

Hang in there! x