It has always been my goal to serve others. Being a nurse has helped me realize this goal. There is an unparalleled fulfilment that one feels when able to make a difference in someone’s life.

But what happens when your physical or mental health gets compromised? Are you still able to give 100% quality service to others?

In my case, my mental health got hit. Depression got the better of me when I took a 2nd travel nursing assignment out West in British Columbia.

Don’t get me wrong, B.C. is a great place to work in and explore. The endless mountains are gorgeous! The city I was assigned in was a picturesque little town with very nice people. I loved my patients and co-workers. Everyone was friendly and nice. Not to mention the fact that travel nursing pays very handsomely.

At that time I just came to the realisation that life is too short for self-imposed loneliness. I missed my family and friends. Being close to the Christmas holidays made my feelings even worse.

I eventually broke my contract after 5 weeks, but not without penalty. Still, I was so thankful to my agency for being so understanding of my situation. It was well ahead of the holidays when I got home and got reunited with my loved ones.

Four months on, I still have bouts of depression from time to time. But with prayers, I am slowly recovering. I am now getting my groove back, so to speak. Every day I get up, I look forward to making a difference in someone’s life.

Yes my fellow nurses, depression is real. Mental health is as equally important as physical health. We need to check ourselves and be mindful of our mental and emotional health. I cannot stress enough the importance of self-care. We cannot pour from an empty vessel.

On this note, may I also remind everyone to also check on your family and friends; see if they need any support. Sometimes just a simple ‘hi’ and ‘how are you?’ can go a long way and can put a smile on someone’s face.

I still recommend that every nurse take on a travel nursing assignment even just once. It’s a great experience to explore a new place for free and meet new people with different backgrounds. Who knows, you might love it.

It is just, however, not for the faint of hearts.