Working as a community staff nurse in health visiting has been an incredibly fulfilling yet challenging journey. As a Black woman, neurodivergent, and living with a non-visible disability osteoarthritis my path has been marked by unique barriers and personal struggles. Yet, through these hurdles, I’ve developed resilience and an empathetic perspective that deeply informs my work and enhances my relationships with the communities I serve.
The Complex Intersection of Identity
Navigating the world as a Black, neurodivergent woman with osteoarthritis means facing a unique blend of challenges. The stereotype of the “strong Black woman” often leads to an undervaluation of my emotional labor and mental health needs. Meanwhile, neurodivergence—which includes conditions like ADHD and autism is frequently misunderstood or stigmatised. Additionally, having a non-visible disability like osteoarthritis means that my physical pain and limitations are not always acknowledged or understood, making it harder to receive necessary support and accommodations.
Professional Challenges in Health Visiting
As a community staff nurse in health visiting, my role is multifaceted. I provide support to the health visitors by carrying out delegated work and providing parenting support to families, whilst contributing to the delivery and organisation of the public health programme. I offer emotional support, guide parents on health reviews, safeguarding and implement early interventions. This role demands exceptional organisational skills, effective communication, and the ability to handle high-pressure situations.
Being neurodivergent, I often face challenges that my neurotypical colleagues might not. Organisational tasks can be particularly overwhelming for someone with ADHD, affecting time management and record-keeping. Social interactions, crucial in health visiting, can be draining for an autistic nurse who has to navigate various social cues. Additionally, osteoarthritis adds another layer of difficulty, with chronic pain and fatigue impacting my physical abilities and stamina.
Confronting Racism, Ableism, and Invisibility
Racism in the workplace can range from subtle micro-aggressions to overt discriminatory practices. As a Black nurse, I sometimes feel an added pressure to prove my competence in a predominantly white workforce. Daily micro-aggressions, such as assumptions about my abilities based on race or constant questioning of my professional decisions, can be exhausting.
Ableism is another significant barrier. The lack of appropriate accommodations or understanding from colleagues and superiors can be disheartening. For instance, requesting flexible hours or lighter duties due to osteoarthritis can be met with resistance or viewed as a sign of incapability. My non-visible disability further complicates this, as I often need to advocate vigorously for accommodations that are not immediately apparent to others.
Strategies for overcoming Challenges
Despite these barriers, I’ve developed strategies to navigate and overcome these challenges effectively. Self-advocacy has been crucial. Understanding my rights and being able to articulate my needs, empowers me to request specific accommodations. This might involve using assistive technology for note taking, ergonomic tools to manage osteoarthritis pain, or seeking mentorship from colleagues who understand and support my neurodivergent traits.
Building a support network has been invaluable. Connecting with other Black and neurodivergent professionals, as well as those with non-visible disabilities, has provided a sense of community and shared understanding. Online forums, professional groups, and advocacy organisations offer resources and support that are essential to my well-being and professional development.
Continuous professional development has also been a powerful tool. Engaging in training that enhances both my clinical skills and personal growth builds confidence and competence. Workshops on cultural competence and diversity have helped me navigate and mitigate the impact of racism and ableism in the workplace.
The Power of Empathy
One of the most profound advantages of my unique identity is the depth of empathy I bring to my role. My lived experiences foster a unique understanding and compassion for the diverse families I serve. This empathy enables me to connect with patients on a deeper level, recognising and respecting their individual struggles and strengths.
Conclusion
Being a Black, neurodivergent female with osteoarthritis working as a community staff nurse in health visiting is undeniably challenging. However, by embracing my unique identity and leveraging it as a source of strength and empathy, I have navigated and overcome these challenges. Through self-advocacy, continuous professional development, and building supportive networks, I have not only thrived in my role but also inspired and impacted the lives of countless families in my community. My journey is a testament to the resilience and power that come from embracing and overcoming adversity.
Written by Lisa daniels