Intensity of work leaves man drained
DEAR ABBY: When I was in my 20s I chose a career whose long-term effects I hadn’t anticipated. I am charged with telling people they are dying and watching them die on a daily basis. While I know I am good at it, it leaves me emotionally drained.
I manage to muster up enough energy to try to be there for my kids but, frankly, I can’t seem to be there for anyone else, including my wife, co-workers and close family. My problem is, this has left me with no emotional support (my children are too young for that, although playing with them is some help) and there are tough days when I really need it. Advice? — ALONE FROM MY WORK
DEAR ALONE: You need a support group. Many people in the medical field find them to be a helpful outlet. Rather than blame yourself for your inability to “be there” for your co-workers and family members, joining a group might help you to relieve some of the stress you are experiencing by talking about it. If you do, I’m sure you will find you are far from
alone. If there isn’t a support group already there for you, please consider starting one, because airing those emotions you haven’t been able to share would be extremely helpful.
Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Write Dear Abby at www.DearAbby. com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.