Guide to surviving unsupportive workplaces

An unsupportive workplace can chip away at your confidence, but it doesn’t take away your professionalism, your compassion, or the impact you make. These clear strategies can help you protect your wellbeing and navigate the challenges. 

🩵 Protect your wellbeing first

To prioritise your health take breaks, eat when you can, and rest enough outside work. Irritability, fatigue and detachment are signs of stress or burnout – be on the lookout in yourself and your colleagues and act to prevent them. It can help to find healthy ways to de-stress after shifts – exercise, journaling, and spending time with loved ones.

💬 Set clear boundaries

Learn to say “no” if the workload is unsafe or unrealistic. Try to not take work problems home with you – create a routine of switching off as you leave work. It is important to know your professional responsibilities, but just as important to know what is not your responsibility.

🤗 Stay connected

Make connections with colleagues – build supportive relationships with colleagues who understand what you’re going through. Seek out mentors, professional networks, or peer groups outside your immediate workplace.

Talk about your experiences in a ‘safe’ place — sometimes just knowing you’re not alone can make a huge difference.

⚖️ Know your rights

Find out what is required of your workplace – read their policies and the nursing codes of conduct. Or ask your union for advice and support.

Make sure you document your experiences of unsafe staffing levels, bullying, or missed breaks. Write down dates and details. And don’t hesitate to escalate serious issues through the right channels if patient or staff safety is at risk.

🌸 Focus on what you can control

Focus on the patients and moments that remind you why you became a nurse to give your work meaning, even in difficult environments. Try lifting the heaviness of a negative culture with small acts of kindness towards yourself and others. Remind yourself: the workplace may be unsupportive, but that doesn’t define your worth.

🌅 Plan for the future

Is staying your only option? Remember that you deserve a safe, respectful workplace. If the situation is long-term and harmful, consider your options — transfer wards, seek another employer, or explore different roles. Or invest in your professional growth – take a course, gain new skills, or try networking to open doors for change.