What support is available for nurses experiencing mental distress?
Our podcast looks at the support available, including the Laura Hyde Foundation's free resource for nursing staff and first responders
What can you do if you or a colleague are at breaking point? How can you find the vital help needed?
The latest episode of the Nursing Standard podcast looks at the support available for nurses who are experiencing mental distress and suicidal thoughts.
- RELATED: Shame, stigma and not making a fuss – why nurses fear seeking help when they reach rock bottom
Many surveys have highlighted the toll of COVID-19 on nursing staff’s mental health. The Laura Hyde Foundation reported how 226 nurses who contacted the charity’s helpline during the pandemic had attempted suicide.
Importance of overcoming stigma to seek help
In response, the charity, set up in memory of naval nurse Laura Hyde who died by suicide in 2016, launched a free suicide prevention resource signposting nurses and other first responder staff to support.
Foundation founder and trustee chair Liam Barnes, who is Laura’s cousin, joins the podcast to talk about the guide and the importance of overcoming stigma to seek help.
He also tells Nursing Standard editor Flavia Munn about how the charity provides funding for initiatives offering mental health support and urges anyone with an idea to email him at liam@laurahydefoundation.org
Find out more
Contact the Samaritans for 24-hour, confidential support by calling 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org
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