Disclaimer: This episode discusses sensitive and potentially distressing topics, including domestic violence, rape, suicide and death. Listener discretion is advised.

After nearly 200 forensic exams and 16 years in nursing, Leah Helmbrecht opens up about the emotional toll of working with survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, and human trafficking. In this raw and powerful episode, Leah shares the moments that shaped her career—and the one that led her to walk away from forensic nursing. She talks about the weight of vicarious trauma, the importance of setting personal boundaries, and why self-care isn’t optional in a system that too often fails both patients and providers. Though she stepped away from the role, Leah continues to advocate fiercely for survivor support and systemic change.

If you or someone you know is at risk of suicide please call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988, text TALK to 988, or go to SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources for additional resources. 

If you or someone you know is in a domestic violence relationship, please reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or text the word START to 88788. 

>>When Caring Turns to Trauma: A Forensic Nurse’s Breaking Point

Jump Ahead to Listen:

[00:01:06] Vicarious trauma in nursing.
[00:07:45] Forensic nurse examiner experience.
[00:12:45] Systematic betrayal of assault victims.
[00:15:29] Vicarious trauma in healthcare workers.
[00:20:49] Self-compassion in challenging times.
[00:25:15] Red flags in relationships.
[00:27:48] Love in abusive relationships.

Connect With Leah on social media:

Instagram: @offtheclocknurse
TikTok: @offtheclocknurse
FB: Off The Clock Nurse Travels

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