Nursing mental health crisis highlighted by suicide risk study

A study published in the Brazilian Journal of Occupational Health has highlighted significant mental health risks among nursing professionals. Research conducted with 581 nursing professionals at two federal university hospitals in southern Brazil identified a suicide risk prevalence of 8.8%. Specifically, the risk reached 10% among nursing technicians and 7.8% among nurses.

Data from the Brazilian Social Security Institute (INSS) shows that between 2012 and 2024, there were 70,701 leaves of absence related to mental health issues among technicians, assistants, and nurses. The Federal Council of Nursing (Cofen) warns that the actual figures may be higher, as these statistics do not fully account for state and municipal employees under different pension regimes, nor do they include leaves of absence lasting fewer than 15 days.

Professionals in the field face various stressors, including long shifts, heavy workloads, pressure, workplace violence, and the emotional burden of managing life-and-death situations.