Nursing stress: applying the wisdom of the wounded-healer.

We think of stress as a modern problem, however from ancient times and in many cultures it has been recognised that being a healer involves demands, difficulties, vulnerabilities, hurt and pain--that is, healing involves wounding. As nurses engage in healing we experience the stresses inherent in personal and professional life. These may have beneficial effects for stress and can provide challenge and motivation. However when the demands become too much or the source of stress is undesirable, then we become distressed or wounded.