5 Mood-Enhancing, stress-busting micro-breaks to try — Power of Peers challenge — Day 8 — Healthy Nurse, Nurse, Healthy Nation
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Take a Mental Wellness Break
As a nurse, it may be difficult to admit when you feel stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed. But this is exactly when you need to speak up — to yourself and to your colleagues — and take steps to restore balance. (This is a great way to lead by example. See Day 6!)
A mental health break gives you both physical and emotional distance from a stressful situation. It’s taking time for yourself to reset and recharge. Studies have found that even mental “microbreaks” during the workday can reduce or prevent stress and keep you performing at your best. Both social or solitary breaks can boost your mood and feeling of well-being.
Your Action for Today
Schedule at least 1 short (5–10 minutes) wellness break and encourage a peer to do the same. Some examples of mood-enhancing, stress-busting microbreaks include:
It’s important to take your mental health seriously. It benefits you, your unit, and your patients. Read our article on mental health tips and resources for nurses for more ways to care for yourself and your peers.
Join us on day 9: A sneak peek - Spot a colleague in need and give them a helping hand.
Missed day 7? Catch up here.
As a nurse, it may be difficult to admit when you feel stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed. But this is exactly when you need to speak up — to yourself and to your colleagues — and take steps to restore balance. (This is a great way to lead by example. See Day 6!)
A mental health break gives you both physical and emotional distance from a stressful situation. It’s taking time for yourself to reset and recharge. Studies have found that even mental “microbreaks” during the workday can reduce or prevent stress and keep you performing at your best. Both social or solitary breaks can boost your mood and feeling of well-being.
Your Action for Today
Schedule at least 1 short (5–10 minutes) wellness break and encourage a peer to do the same. Some examples of mood-enhancing, stress-busting microbreaks include:
- Deep breathing exercises
- Listening to your favorite music or song
- Meditation
- Reciting affirmations
- Short exercises like stretching, strength training, or a quick walk around the unit or up the stairs
It’s important to take your mental health seriously. It benefits you, your unit, and your patients. Read our article on mental health tips and resources for nurses for more ways to care for yourself and your peers.
Join us on day 9: A sneak peek - Spot a colleague in need and give them a helping hand.
Missed day 7? Catch up here.
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06/11/2025 3:56pm CDT
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