In this special episode of Leaving CrazyTown, hosts Finn and Dr. Sarah are joined by Kate Vitela, a recovery coach and nurse specializing in psych and addiction. Kate shares her personal journey of overcoming codependency as a nurse and the insights gained through recovery. This episode delves into the challenges nurses face in recognizing and addressing codependency, shedding light on the impact of untreated codependency on nurses’ well-being.
Key Takeaways:
- Codependency in Nursing: Kate Vitela reflects on her experience as a nurse entering a monitoring program for nurses with substance use issues. She highlights how high levels of codependency among nurses contribute to burnout, neglect of self-care, and the challenge of admitting personal struggles while caring for others.
- The Role of Addiction: Kate discusses how addiction, particularly alcoholism, can be a coping mechanism for underlying issues such as people-pleasing, feelings of inadequacy, and the need for validation. She emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and breaking through denial to address addiction and codependency effectively.
- Impact on Nursing Practice: Transitioning from cardiac nursing to mental health and addiction nursing, Kate shares how awareness of her codependent tendencies transformed her approach to self-care and patient care. By prioritizing her well-being and recognizing early signs of burnout, she emphasizes the shift from a mindset of overworking to one of balance and self-care.
- Resentment and Recovery: Resentment, a common aspect of codependency, is explored as a key trigger that can lead to self-medication and relational challenges. Kate’s coaching practice focuses on recognizing and addressing resentments as part of ongoing recovery work, providing essential tools for nurses and individuals struggling with codependency.
Conclusion:
The podcast episode “Nurses and Codependency” with Kate Vitela offers valuable insights into the complexities of codependency in nursing and the journey toward recovery and self-care. By acknowledging the interplay between addiction, codependency, and nursing practice, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by caregivers and the importance of prioritizing mental health and well-being. Explore the transformative power of self-awareness, resilience, and support in overcoming codependency and fostering a healthier relationship with oneself and others.
This episode addresses the intricate dynamics of codependency and empowers nurses and individuals to embark on a path of healing, growth, and self-discovery. Join the conversation on codependency in nursing and embrace the journey toward holistic well-being and fulfillment.
Welcome to RECOVERY PODCASTLAND, your audio haven for all things recovery! With an overwhelming number of engaging podcasts constantly updating each week, it can be hard to keep up. That’s where The Sober Curator steps in!
We’re tirelessly curating and producing original podcast content focusing on sobriety & recovery, so you don’t have to wade through the noise. Sober Curator Pro Tip: Tune into our recommended podcasts while driving, dog-walking, working out, house-cleaning, crafting, prepping for the day, or cooking. It’s a perfect way to infuse your daily routine with a dose of recovery inspiration.
FEATURED SOBER CURATOR CONTRIBUTORS PODCASTS:
- Eternally Amy – Sober Curator Contributor Amy Liz Harrison
- Fcking Sober the First 90 Days – katie MACK
- Friend Request – Sober Curator Contributor Justin Lamb
- Laughing Without Liquor – Sober Curator Contributors Tamar Medford & Lane Kennedy
- Leaving Crazy Town – Sober Curator Contributors Dr. Sarah Michaud & Finn Allen
- Sober is Dope! – Pop Buchanan
- Sober Not Mature – Sober Curator Contributors Bill & Mike
- Sobriety Checkpoint – Sober Curator Contributor Felicia Hermle
- The Creative Sober – Mei McIntosh
- Time Takes Time – Sober Curator Contributors Lane Kennedy & Alysse Bryson
- Wellness as a Way of Life – Sober Curator Contributor & Wellness Coach Megan Swan
In the mood for some tunes instead? PLAY IT AGAIN shares songs that have impacted our recovery journeys.
YOU’VE BEEN SELECTED: Kate Vitela has been an RN in the Pacific Northwest for over two decades. She has been sober since 2018. You’ve Been Selected is a column that describes her journey through addiction, eating disorders, and what is now known as Drunkorexia. The title comes from years of mandatory drug testing Kate endured after nearly ruining her nursing career due to alcohol. Kate recalls seeing these words appear on her phone each day she was chosen to randomly drug test to prove her sobriety to the nursing board.
Kate chronicles her struggle with body image, perfectionism, stigma, shame, and burnout throughout her career. She also turns this twisted narrative into triumph as she internalizes it as a sign from the universe to speak up and tell her story. Kate continues to work as a mental health nurse leader and is studying to become a board-certified nurse coach.
In her free time, Kate is actively involved in the fashion industry in the PNW. She also serves on the board of the Break Free Foundation, which produces twice-annual shows for NYFW. Since starting the blog Walk Your Talk, she has been modeling for two years.
Follow along with Kate on IG @katevitela or email her directly at vitela.kate@gmail.com
SOBERSCRIBE NOW!
Resources Are Available
If you or someone you know is experiencing difficulties surrounding alcoholism, addiction, or mental illness, please reach out and ask for help. People everywhere can and want to help; you just have to know where to look. And continue to look until you find what works for you. Click here for a list of regional and national resources.
