Accessing Mental Health Support

Course overview

This learning activity examines the mental health crisis facing nursing professionals, addressing the significantly elevated rates of burnout, anxiety, depression, and PTSD among nurses compared to the general population. The content explores physiological and psychological stressors unique to nursing practice, including moral injury, workplace violence, and systemic barriers that prevent nurses from accessing mental health support. Participants will learn about emerging support pathways including telehealth, digital platforms, peer support programs, and Employee Assistance Programs, while gaining practical strategies for integrating mental health support into daily practice through micro-practices, boundary-setting, and support activation plans. The activity emphasizes both individual action and systemic advocacy, guiding nurses to assess their own mental health needs, access appropriate resources, reduce stigma through peer conversations, and advocate for organizational culture change that prioritizes nurse well-being as essential to sustainable, high-quality patient care.