Are You Carrying More Than You Realize?

If you’re a healthcare worker, nurse, therapist, or provider feeling emotionally numb, physically exhausted, or on the edge of burnout — this episode is for you. Today we’re breaking down a critical issue no one’s talking enough about: vicarious trauma in healthcare providers. And by the end of this episode, you’ll have the tools to recognize it, name it, and start taking back control of your mental health.

🔥 In This Episode:
We’ll help you answer questions you’ve been quietly asking yourself:
Why do I feel so emotionally drained after work?
Is it normal to feel numb around suffering?
How can I keep doing this without losing myself?

This conversation isn’t about surface-level self-care tips. We’re getting real about the mental, emotional, and even physical symptoms of carrying trauma that isn’t yours — and what you can do starting today to begin healing while still serving others.

✨ What You’ll Walk Away With:
✅ How to identify the subtle warning signs of vicarious trauma before it leads to burnout or breakdown
✅ A clear understanding of the difference between burnout, compassion fatigue, and vicarious trauma — and why naming it matters
✅ Mindset shifts and small daily habits you can implement immediately to protect your mental health
✅ Permission to prioritize your own care without guilt, so you can show up stronger for your patients and yourself

💡 This episode is a safe space to say “I’m not okay” — and learn what to do about it. If you’ve been searching for a conversation that gets it, this is it.

👇 Drop a comment and tell us: What’s one thing you’re committing to for your mental health this week?

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The Melanin Initiative.
A health literacy podcast offering our nursing perspective and elevating the health conversations our communities deserve.
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Resources Mentioned:

• Beacon Behavioral Health: https://beaconbh.com/
• The PMHNP Source: https://www.pmhnpsource.com/

Connect with Kirby Williams, PMHNP

Instagram: @yourpmhnpmentor

LinkedIn: https://www. linkedin.com/in/kirby-williams-msn-pmhnp-bc

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