Addressing Bullying in Nursing and Midwifery with Tammy Copley

High Performance Nursing with Liam Caswell

DISCLAIMER - This episode may trigger listeners, please access support as required and stop listening if this is causing you mental/emotional distress. Please seek out professional support as listed below. The views of all guests are their own and not the views of HPN/Liam Caswell.

In this deeply impactful episode of the High-Performance Nursing Podcast, host Liam Caswell welcomes back Tammy Copley, a passionate advocate against bullying in nursing and midwifery. Tammy shares her extensive experiences and insights into the pervasive issue of bullying within the profession, offering practical advice, emotional support, and hope for those affected.

Key Topics Discussed:

Tammy's Return to the Podcast:

• Recap of Tammy’s previous appearances and her continued dedication to addressing bullying.
• Introduction to the sensitive topic of bullying and a trigger warning for listeners.

Defining Bullying in Nursing:

• Tammy’s definition of bullying and how it differs from reasonable management actions or personality conflicts.
• The sustained, repeated, and harmful nature of bullying.

Impact of Bullying on Mental Health:

• The severe mental health consequences of bullying include anxiety, depression, and even suicide.
• Personal stories shared by Tammy and Liam highlight the emotional toll of bullying.

Understanding the Nurse Bully:

• Insights into the mindset of bullies and their own emotional struggles.
• Discussion on how bullying reflects the bully’s insecurities and low self-esteem.

Navigating Bullying Situations:

• Strategies for recognizing and responding to bullying.
• The importance of seeking help and support from trusted sources.

Criminal Aspects of Bullying:

• When bullying escalates to criminal behavior, such as physical assault or harassment.
• The necessity of involving legal authorities in extreme cases.

Support Systems and Resources:

• The role of unions, professional bodies, and support groups in combating bullying.
• Encouragement to utilize available resources for mental health support.

Positive Outcomes and Growth:

• Success stories of individuals who have overcome bullying and reinvented themselves.
• Examples of nurses who have found new career paths or transformed their professional lives.

Tammy’s Passion and Advocacy:

• Tammy’s personal experiences with bullying and her unwavering commitment to support others.
• The importance of speaking out and advocating for a safer work environment.

Notable Quotes:

• "Bullying is sustained, repeated harassment meant to harm, and it does harm."
• "The bullies actually have really low self-esteem. They don't feel good about themselves, so they pick on other people and make their lives a living hell."
• "There are a lot of success stories. It helps people to be braver and bolder and move on to a better workplace or reinvent themselves."

Join Liam Caswell and Tammy Copley in this eye-opening discussion about bullying in nursing and midwifery. Gain valuable insights, learn effective strategies to combat bullying, and discover the support available to help you navigate challenging situations. If you or someone you know is experiencing bullying, please reach out for help and support.

Links and Resources:

• Tammy Copley's Facebook Group: Nurses and Midwives Against Bullying Official
• Nursing and Midwifery Helpline
• Nurse and Midwifery Health Program
• The Bully Project

Thank you for listening!

Disclaimer

The thoughts, views, and opinions expressed by guests on the High-Performance Nursing Podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of Liam Caswell or the High-Performance Nursing Podcast. The podcast and its host are not responsible for any statements or claims made by guests during the episodes. Listeners are encouraged to consider the information presented and seek professional advice when necessary.