It is #BellLetsTalk ...so let’s talk. Have you ever responded to the question “how are you doing?” with a “fine” or “good” even though you really weren’t fine or good?! I know I certainly have.

While every time you are asked it may not be a great time to delve into what is going on I challenge you and myself to be courageous enough to answer how you are really doing. Especially when talking with those people that you have around you that are your support system.

As a nurse I find that I am constantly observing and assessing my patients and residents. How are they doing (both physically and mentally)? Trying my hardest to notice the big and small changes that could mean they aren’t doing as well or hopefully doing better.

I challenge you healthcare workers to turn that observation and assessment on yourself and coworkers. Did you notice the subtle and sometimes glaringly obvious signs of chronic stress and burnout? I certainly didn’t.

So now it’s time to talk....talk to your family, talk to your friends, talk to your coworkers, talk to your children. Check in with them, don’t settle for “fine” “good”. Make a safe space for people to open up to you and for you to them.