Have you ever wondered why you or another person has reacted in a deep way to something that others haven’t even noticed? Has a situation, either personally or within your workplace triggered you without any understanding of why? Not surprisingly, nurses are more likely to be highly intuitive and sensitive individuals. It may be that YOU experience life more deeply due to this heightened degree of sensitivity. Judy Dyer's 'The Highly Sensitive' explores how to navigate relationships and experiences as a highly sensitive person while providing many practical tips in an empathetic manner.
The book explores the concept and lived experience of being a highly sensitive person, from understanding one's past, reactions to challenges, and ways you may cope to protect yourself. Dyer shares practical insights and advice for thriving in relationships in a world that often can overlook the benefits of such sensitivity.
Dyer's writing is rational and encouraging, making it easy for readers (especially sensitive ones) to relate. The book effectively breaks down complex ideas and excels in providing practical strategies for managing overwhelming situations and encouraging self-acceptance.
Both highly sensitive persons and those that care about, or for them, can benefit from this book. Reading this book may validate your own level of sensitivity and help you as a nurse recognize and understand patients who may be highly sensitive; it can aid in providing more personalized and empathetic care and communication strategies to sensitive persons.
Additionally, nurses may resonate with the traits of high sensitivity themselves. Exploring this book can offer insights into your own reactions, emotions, and coping mechanisms, fostering increased self-awareness. This self-awareness can positively impact your interactions with patients and colleagues, enhancing communication and teamwork techniques.
Should you be a highly sensitive person, or care about others whose deep feelings suggest that they are, prepare to gain a sense of understanding, as the puzzle pieces of many relationships may fall into place!
After more than twenty years of national leadership in supporting nursing students and newly graduated nurses through professional role transition, Nursing the Future (NTF) is concluding its current operational chapter.
Since 2004, NTF has served as a vital bridge for new nurses, educators, and leaders navigating the vulnerable early months of practice. Through evidence-based programming, national partnerships, and a commitment to building a safe “cul-de-sac” for early-career nurses, NTF has supported thousands across Canada in cultivating connection, confidence, and professional identity.
We extend deep gratitude to our partners, including the Canadian Nurses Foundation, the Canadian Nurses Association, the Canadian Nursing Students Association, provincial ministries, healthcare institutions, and countless contributors whose belief in transition-to-practice support made this work possible.
While formal operations conclude, the scholarship, curriculum, intellectual property, and program infrastructure developed over two decades remain intact and available for strategic partnership and collaboration. For further dialogue on potential collaborations, please contact Dr. Duchscher directly: newgraduates@nursingthefuture.ca
We welcome conversations with ministries, health regions, academic institutions, and professional associations interested in advancing initiatives such as:
The mission of healthy and supported professional role transition remains urgent. The work continues, sustained through scholarship, partnership, and shared commitment to the future of Canadian nursing.
With enduring gratitude,
Dr. Judy Duchscher - Founder & CEO, Nursing the Future
Kathryn Corneau - Program Director, Nursing the Future
For our FULL letter of Gratitude CLICK HERE
