Applying Evidence to Improve Practice: Qualitative Insights Into Nurses' Experiences With Organizational Support for Mental Health Recovery.

BACKGROUND

The mental health and well-being of nurses are critical issues in health care, particularly following the increased stressors introduced by the COVID-19 pandemic. Nurses frequently experience burnout, stress, and emotional exhaustion due to systemic issues such as staffing shortages, heavy workloads, and limited access to mental health resources. These challenges not only affect nurses' well-being but also impact the quality of patient care. Organizational support plays a pivotal role in mitigating these issues, yet the lived experiences of nurses regarding such support remain underexplored.

AIM

This Study Aimed to Explore Nurses' Lived Experiences of Organizational Support and Its Impact on Their Mental Health Recovery, With a Focus on Identifying Actionable Strategies for Improvement.

METHODS

A qualitative phenomenological approach was employed, using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) to gain deep insights into nurses' experiences. Twenty nurses from various healthcare facilities in the Asir region, Saudi Arabia, were recruited through purposive sampling. Data were collected through face-to-face semi-structured interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis to identify recurring patterns and themes.

RESULTS

Three main themes emerged: (1) Supportive Leadership, highlighting the critical role of empathetic and communicative leadership in fostering well-being; (2) Systemic Barriers, including staffing shortages, heavy workloads, and limited access to mental health resources; and (3) Workplace Wellness Culture, reflecting the influence of stigma, peer support, and the practicality of wellness programs on mental health recovery. These themes underscore the interconnected nature of leadership, systemic issues, and workplace culture in supporting nurses' mental health.

LINKING EVIDENCE TO ACTION

The findings suggest several actionable strategies, including leadership training programs to foster empathy and communication, policies to address systemic barriers, tailored and accessible wellness programs, and initiatives to reduce mental health stigma. These interventions are essential for creating supportive environments that prioritize nurses' well-being and enhance their ability to deliver high-quality care.