Is Nursing a Profession Worth Dying For? No, it's Not...

Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions on suidcide. 

In this episode, The Gritty Nurse, Amie Archibald-Varley discusses the tragic story of Roseanne, a nurse who died by suicide, highlighting critical issues in mental health staffing, accountability in healthcare, and the need for systemic change. The conversation emphasizes the importance of recognizing warning signs of suicide and supporting colleagues in the nursing profession. Through personal anecdotes and advocacy for better mental health care, the episode calls for a shift in how the healthcare system addresses these pressing issues.

If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in North America for 24/7, free, and confidential support, or dial 911 for life-threatening emergencies. You can also find local resources through the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) or the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), and don't hesitate to reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or doctor for help. 

https://988.ca/ (Canada)

https://988lifeline.org/ (USA) 

Chapters

00:00 Intro and Amie's Story 07:35 Critical Issues in Mental Health In Healthcare  17:25 Rosanne's Story: Accountability in Healthcare: Who is Responsible?  23:04 Vital Signs: Changing the Narrative on Mental Health 39:03 A Call to Action: Resources and Support for Nurses

Takeaways

The story of a nurse's suicide highlights systemic failures. Understaffing in mental health units is a critical issue. Nurses should never work alone in high-risk situations. Violence against nurses is often normalized and overlooked. Accountability in healthcare organizations is lacking. Mental health care must prioritize safety and support for nurses. Suicide prevention requires a cultural shift in healthcare. Vulnerability among healthcare provid