The Importance of Healers Prioritizing Their Own Mental Health

To all the professional nurses of the past, present, and future.... Happy Professional Nurses Week! As healthcare providers, we dedicate our lives to the well-being of others. We work tirelessly to care for patients, relieve suffering, and improve lives. But there’s a critical issue that often gets overlooked in our profession: the mental health of the healers themselves. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I’ve seen firsthand and experienced how the demands of the healthcare profession can take a significant toll on the emotional and mental well-being of practitioners. What’s alarming, though, is the extent to which we, as caregivers, often dismiss our own need for care.

We are often trained to push through our struggles, to "take care of business" and keep going. However, this approach can be harmful—not only to our personal health but also to the quality of care we provide for others.

The Stark Reality for Healthcare Workers

Healthcare workers are at an increased risk for mental health challenges due to the nature of their work. In fact, studies show that healthcare professionals experience higher rates of depression, anxiety, and burnout compared to the general population. A 2021 study published in JAMA Network Open found that 42% of physicians reported symptoms of burnout, with 15% exhibiting signs of depression. This is a staggering figure when you consider the emotional, physical, and psychological demands we face daily.

Additionally, mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression in healthcare workers can contribute to a rise in chronic health conditions. For instance, chronic stress is known to be linked to cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and gastrointestinal issues. The constant pressure and long hours of caregiving can also lead to sleep disturbances, leading to a further deterioration of overall health.

The High Risk of Suicide in Healthcare Workers

The most alarming consequence of neglecting mental health among healthcare professionals is the elevated risk of suicide. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), healthcare workers have a significantly higher suicide rate than the general population. In fact, the suicide rate among physicians is about 1.5 times higher than the public. The rate of suicide among nurses is notably higher than in the general population. According to a study published in JAMA Surgery in 2020, female nurses are 2.5 times more likely to die by suicide compared to women in the general population. Additionally, the study found that male nurses are 1.4 times more likely to die by suicide than men in the general population. This underscores the importance of addressing the mental health needs of healthcare workers, particularly nurses, who face high stress, emotional demands, and burnout in their profession.

The pressure to always be "on," to never show weakness, and to constantly put others' needs before our own can contribute to feelings of isolation, hopelessness, and even despair. Without proper attention to mental health, these feelings can escalate, making it critical for healthcare workers to recognize when they need support.

The Consequences of Ignoring Our Own Mental Health

The culture of “taking care of others first” often means that healthcare workers put their own mental health on the back burner. This is a dangerous trend that can lead to burnout, compromised care, and a decline in overall well-being. Furthermore, failing to address our own mental health needs can create a cycle of emotional exhaustion and detachment, which affects not only our ability to provide compassionate care but also our physical health.

When we neglect our mental health, we are more likely to experience symptoms such as fatigue, irritability, and even cognitive decline, which can hinder our ability to make sound decisions or handle difficult situations in the clinical setting. This puts both us and our patients at risk.

Seeking Healing as Healers

As healthcare professionals, it is essential that we seek help when we need it. Just as we encourage our patients to prioritize their mental well-being, we must practice what we preach. Therapy, mindfulness practices, and seeking psychiatric care are all valuable resources that can support mental health. Additionally, creating a culture of openness about mental health in healthcare settings is crucial. By breaking down the stigma, we can create an environment where seeking help is seen as a strength, not a weakness.

At Mindfully Mended Psychiatry, we provide a safe and supportive environment for those in the healthcare field to seek the mental health care they deserve. No one should have to suffer in silence, especially those who care for others every day.

In the end, prioritizing mental health isn't just an individual responsibility, it’s a societal one. When we, as healers, take care of our own mental well-being, we become better equipped to take care of others. I’m here for you!

Where Authentic Healing, Mindfully Mends …

Dr. Jessica Stehl DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC

Owner and Provider, Mindfully Mended Psychiatry