The average rating for mental health among nurses in 2023 was 6.6, up from 5.8 in 2022, 5.7 in 2021 and 5.4 in 2020. Negative outcomes associated with mental health have declined, with moral injury down by 28 percent and compassion fatigue and suicidal thoughts dropping by 27 and 25 percent, respectively.
There are a variety of factors affecting nurses’ mental health, with 80 percent of nurses listing staffing shortages as a reason for mental health struggles. Meanwhile, 55 percent included patient assignments and 53 percent listed the atmosphere in their unit or department.
At the Becker's Fall Behavioral Health Summit, taking place November 4–5 in Chicago, behavioral health leaders and executives will explore strategies for expanding access to care, integrating services, addressing workforce challenges and leveraging innovation to improve outcomes across the behavioral health continuum. Apply for complimentary registration now.