Yes. Get the professional support you need, and do it. There are many different types of nursing jobs.
Social anxiety affects about 7% of the total population at any given time, and nurses are no exception. Even though nursing is one of the most people-oriented jobs you'll find, it's not uncommon for nurses to struggle with certain social aspects at work.
Can I Be a Nurse If I Have Anxiety? Absolutely. Pre-existing mental health conditions do not preclude individuals from being a successful nurse.
Introverts actually make wonderful RNs, and if you can learn how to apply some top nursing communication skills tips, you can connect with patients and other staff members in positive, helpful ways. Check out our seven tips for boosting communication, even if you're a hard introvert.
Introverts can make excellent nurse leaders because they excel at mentoring and empowering others. There are other reasons why introverts can be amazing nurses. They have strong listening and observation skills which often translates into rewarding relationships with others.
Social anxiety disorder (SAD) can interfere with employment. Attending school, college, or university, going on job interviews, and performing in a work environment can be difficult if you live with this disorder. Those who do find themselves maintaining employment may still struggle daily.
Social anxiety disorder (SAD) can affect your performance at work as well as your relationships with coworkers and supervisors. SAD can also make it difficult for you to find a job, considering the anxiety that a job interview can produce.
People who are naturally more reserved and those who have experienced trauma like childhood abuse or neglect are more likely to develop the disorder. Additionally, those with a first-degree blood relative who has the disorder are anywhere from two to six times more likely to experience Social Anxiety Disorder.
Institutional Nurses
These nurses administer more basic care and typically don't have to work long hours and overnight shifts, so this field of nursing tends to be low-stress. Even with less excitement, these nurses find fulfillment in providing basic and family care to those in need.
The most stressful nursing jobs include ICU nurse, ER nurse, and NICU nurse. In these roles, nurses work in an intense environment with high stakes. They manage emergency situations and care for critically ill patients. Other stressful nursing jobs include OR nursing, oncology nursing, and psychiatric nursing.
Have self-compassion and give yourself grace: Self-compassion is the ability to become mindful of your own distress and work to alleviate it. If you're feeling discouraged and anxious as a new nurse, offer yourself the same loving kindness you would offer a friend dealing with the same situation.
Social anxiety disorder (formerly known as social phobia) is a mental health condition where you experience intense and ongoing fear of being judged negatively and/or watched by others.
Social Anxiety can be considered a disability by the Social Security Administration (SSA). Thus, you could be able to receive Social Security disability benefits with social anxiety disorder.
Some new nurses find creative ways to spend quality time with their children and spouses while keeping in touch with friends. Having a social life as a nurse with people who aren't your co-workers isn't impossible.
Requesting Accommodations
Try not to wait to tell your employer about your SAD until it is too late and your work has suffered. Disclosing your social anxiety disorder early and in good faith is more likely to be met with a positive response.
Social anxiety disorder symptoms can change over time. They may flare up if you're facing a lot of changes, stress or demands in your life. Although avoiding situations that produce anxiety may make you feel better in the short term, your anxiety is likely to continue over the long term if you don't get treatment.
Face your fears, don't hide from them
Another go-to for people who experience social anxiety is to avoid engaging in social situations by checking social media or doing other activities on their smartphones. Share on Pinterest Hiding behind your smartphone to avoid social interaction could do more harm than good.
“Can you fire someone for other mental health issues?” The simple answer is yes, so long as you follow a fair process. If the employee is suffering from severe anxiety or stress, the same rules apply.
Critical care nurses suffer the highest rates of burnout.
This is mainly due to the nature of the job, as critical care nurses work specialize in the emergency department (ED) and intensive care unit (ICU). As such, their work environment is constantly fast-paced, meticulous, and demanding.