Strength in Stillness

If this time of year has you running in a million directions, you are not alone. Keeping up with our professional and personal commitments with the addition of year-end celebrations is not easy. I’m reminding you this December to recognize that. And to take some time to do…nothing. Rest.

Sounds impossible right? Or maybe even a waste of time. But let’s remember: Rest is a science-based recommendation. It is through rest that our strength can be rebuilt.

And as psychiatric-mental health nurses we have considerable strengths: Our foundation in science and ability to foster therapeutic relationships set us apart. We owe it to ourselves to rest so that we can return to our pace stronger than ever.

As we welcome the new year, let’s continue our journey as resilient professionals by setting the intention to build on our strengths. Together we’ll advance care and improve the quality of life for those who trust us with their wellness. But for now, we find rest where we can. Wishing you and your loved ones peace and renewed strength for the coming New Year.

Allyson Matney Neal, DNP, PMHNP-BC, PMHCNS-BC, PNP
President

Published December 2025