The State of Health and Intentions for Action to Advance Mental Health and Well-being for the Nursing Workforce

Abstract

The aims of this study were to explore the health of nurse leaders and assess intentions to integrate workplace mental health/wellness practices. BACKGROUND: National efforts address high rates of poor mental health and lifestyle behaviors among nurses. Few studies describe the extent to which nurse leaders in academic and clinical environments can influence a strategic mission for health/well-being among the nursing workforce. METHODS: Two hundred seventeen email invitations were distributed to nurse leaders from 5 Kentucky nursing organizations to complete a 1-time 46-item online survey assessing individual health behaviors and intentions to build a culture of workplace health/well-being. RESULTS: Most respondents reported positive physical health (86%), positive mental health/intentions for action to change behaviors (80%), improved self-care practices (86%), integration of self-care practices in the workplace (79%), and commitment to integrate suicide prevention training (55%).