Caring for You: Prioritizing Clinician Mental Health during National Suicide Prevention Month

National Suicide Prevention Month serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health and the devastating impact of suicide on individuals and communities. As we come together to raise awareness about suicide prevention, it's essential to recognize the unique role that nurses and clinicians play. 

Healthcare professionals, including nurses and clinicians, are dedicated to caring for the physical and mental well-being of their patients. However, in the process, they often neglect their own mental health. The demanding nature of the profession, long hours, and exposure to emotionally challenging situations can take a toll on clinicians. A study conducted from 2007-2018 found that more than 159,000 suicides were reported, and during that time frame, nearly 2,400 were nurses. About 80% of them were women. 

In a field where they are caregivers, clinicians may fear the stigma associated with seeking help for their own mental health challenges. This stigma can be a barrier to getting the support they need.

Supporting Clinician Mental Health:

National Suicide Prevention Month is an opportunity for nurses and clinicians to acknowledge the importance of their mental health. Here are some ways to prioritize mental well-being:

• Self-Care: Make self-care a priority. This includes setting boundaries, taking regular breaks, and engaging in activities that bring joy and relaxation.

• Seek Help: There's no shame in seeking help from mental health professionals. Reach out to therapists or counselors if you're struggling with your mental health.
• Peer Support: Talk to colleagues about your experiences and challenges. Often, sharing with someone who understands can be immensely therapeutic.
• Debrief: After particularly challenging cases, engage in debriefing sessions with your team to process emotions and experiences.
• Mindfulness and Resilience Training: Consider mindfulness practices and resilience training to enhance emotional well-being and cope with stress.
  
  

Supporting Colleagues:

Nurses and clinicians can also play a pivotal role in supporting the mental health of their colleagues:

• Open Dialogue: Encourage open discussions about mental health within your workplace. Normalize seeking help and support.
• Mentorship: Offer mentorship and guidance to newer healthcare professionals. Sharing your experiences can help them navigate the challenges of the field.
• Advocate: Advocate for mental health resources and programs within your healthcare institution. Ensure that clinicians have access to the support they need.

UC San Diego has also implemented a program called HEAR, Healer Education and Assessment and Referral Program, giving healthcare professionals the resources and support they need. 

As we work together to prevent suicide and reduce stigma, let us remember that self-care and seeking help are signs of strength, not weakness. By caring for ourselves and supporting our colleagues, we can create a healthcare environment where everyone's mental health is valued, protected, and nurtured. Together, we can be a beacon of hope not only for our patients but for one another as well.

The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is also available 24/7. You can now call or text 988 to get help or visit www.988lifeline.org