"While I understand that many healthcare workers often feel a need to distance themselves from attachments, I do not think it is beneficial in the end. I think as healthcare providers, especially in areas where there is a high risk of loss of life, many of us create a barrier between ourselves and others. It's like a 'self-protect' mode. However, when we are secluded from others, we tend to internalize our emotions and the stress related to caring for these seriously ill patients can begin to affect us personally. I worked with a group of people previously in critical care who had a weekly dinner scheduled. Everyone was not able to attend every week, but it was a standing 'date' for those who were able. It gave us an opportunity to laugh and enjoy one another's company without the anxiety of the day looming over us."

"I emphatically feel that seclusion is not in the best interest of healthcare providers. While we all need a chance to refocus and get our thoughts together, I think it is important to remember the old saying 'no man is an island.' What I mean is, we need each other. No one can offer support to a healthcare provider like someone who does the same job."