In caregiving, sensitivity is often framed as a weakness. We’re told to be “thick skinned,” “detached,” or “resilient enough” to handle anything. But I’ve learned in 13 years as a PSW, and now as a nursing student, that sensitivity is actually a strength. It allows you to notice subtle changes in a patient, respond with empathy, and anticipate needs before they become crises. It makes your care more thoughtful, ethical, and humane. The challenge isn’t sensitivity itself, it’s learning how to regulate it so it doesn’t lead to burnout. Sensitivity without self-care can overwhelm us, but sensitivity with boundaries, nervous-system awareness, and practical strategies is what makes us truly effective caregivers. I’d love to hear from you: How has your sensitivity helped you in your caregiving work?

After spending the week studying for Anatomy & Physiology tests, I like to unwind by doing something creative - the opposite of scientific focus for me. I decompress through painting, sculpting, wire-wrapping jewelry, or simply drawing. Creativity gives my brain space to breathe and helps me reset. Here’s a fun little activity, to make wire wrapped dragonfly earrings. I love these so much! https://youtu.be/ZVa-OmMUEN8?si=7z1ubLVEWT2EcKD8

Care work can be draining in different ways, and it's not always the obvious things. Sometimes it's: - Emotional labour - Family dynamics - Time pressure - Sensory overload - Moral distress - Or the feeling of never quite being "off" You don't need to explain or justify anything here. If you want to share, just answer simply: What drains you the most right now? (Responding to other's is optional.)

Community Norms - Please Read This is a calm, thoughtful space. To keep it that way: - No shaming, correcting for ego, or "you should have known better" - Evidence-based discussion is welcome - superiority is not - Share from your own experience, not from authority alone - No trauma dumping (it's okay to name hard things without details) - Disagreement is allowed; disrespect is not - Advice is offered, not imposed You are always allowed to: - Lurk - Take breaks - Change your mind - Say "I don't know" Caregiving already asks a lot of us. This space won't. Thank you for being here. — Katie

Your hands have carried grief, joy, love, exhaustion, work, caregiving, tenderness, and strength. They’ve done their best for you. Take 5 minutes to be present with them. Massage them slowly. Thank them. Let this be a quiet act of self-love. You deserve moments of softness.