Workplace pressures drive a surge in suicidal thoughts among UK nurses, according to new research from the Royal College of Nursing (RCN).
Workplace pressures drive a surge in suicidal thoughts among UK nurses, according to new research from the Royal College of Nursing (RCN).
Since November last year, there has been a 54% increase in nursing staff contacting the RCN due to suicidal thoughts.
Analysis of data from the RCN’s counselling service between February 202 and February shows that 69% of nursing staff seeking help attributed workplace pressures as a key factor.
Many members of the nursing workforce have faced overwhelming emotional stress during the COVID-19 crisis. The pandemic exacerbated the issue, with female nurses having double the suicide risk of women in the general population.
RCN Wales is calling for the creation of compassionate workplaces, taking a preventative approach that encourages people to seek help when they need it most.
Helen Whyley, RCN Wales Executive Director, said:
"Nursing staff are experiencing alarming rates of suicidal ideation, with female nurses having a higher rate of suicide than other women. The complexities of suicide, influenced by workplace, financial, and personal problems, demand a comprehensive, needs-based clinical approach. Nurses, who tirelessly care for others, often face overwhelming stress and emotional fatigue. When thoughts of suicide arise, it's crucial to remember that they, too, deserve support and compassion.”
Linda Pritchard, Mental Health Nurse, said: “These findings are unacceptable, sad and distressing. However, not that surprising as there is so much pressure on nursing staff. Nurses need support from managers, and managers need training and development in how to provide this support to their staff.”
ENDS
Notes to Editors
Between November 2023 and April 2024, the RCN’s advice line was contacted by 171 members of nursing staff who said they were suffering from suicidal ideation. This is an increase of 54% on the previous six months (May 2023-October 2024) when the number of contacts was 111. This is also more than double (104%) the number of contacts that were made between November 2022 and April 2023 (84).
The RCN counselling service analysed the 352 service users between February 2022 and February 2024 who presented as suffering with suicidal ideation in their initial assessment. Of those who had an initial assessment, 69% cited ‘Work/Academic’ as one of the reasons behind why they were seeking help (244).
Samaritans’ media guidelines for reporting suicide provide advice to journalists on how to cover suicide and self-harm safely. The Royal College of Nursing would strongly urge any media outlet to adhere to the guidance in their coverage of this news item.
The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) is the voice of nursing across the UK and is the largest professional union of nursing staff in the world with over half a million members in the UK, including around 30,500 members in Wales.
For more information, contact the RCN Wales communications and media team on 02920 680 769 or mediawales@rcn.org.uk
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