We are living in troubled times. The pace of change, ongoing uncertainty, and the weight of division in our communities create a constant undercurrent of stress. As Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurses, we know the toll this takes on mental health—our patients’, our colleagues’, and our own. In moments like these, self-care is not indulgence; it is survival. 

Self-care can look different for each of us: taking a quiet walk, practicing mindfulness, setting healthy boundaries, or finding joy in connection with others. These small but intentional acts help us stay grounded when the world feels overwhelming. They also strengthen our capacity for compassion, empathy, and presence in the lives of those we serve. 

By caring for ourselves, we are better able to care for others. We model resilience for our patients, reminding them that tending to one’s own well-being is not selfish but essential. In choosing self-care, we affirm hope in troubled times and create space for healing—both individually and collectively.