The Great Resignation: Why Nurses Are Walking Away
- Project Renew
- 7 days ago
- 3 min read
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic,
The pressures on nurses have escalated to unprecedented levels,
Leading to what many are now calling "The Great Resignation."
As a massive wave of nurses leave it has never been more important to understand the reasons why what was once a passionate, rewarding career for many has turned into a stressful, high-pressured environment filled with burnout and underappreciation.
At Project Renew, our mission is to support the mental health and well-being of nurses, whilst understanding the underlying reasons for this exodus and exploring potential solutions.
Burnout and Mental Health Struggles
One of the most significant factors driving nurses away from their jobs is burnout. The pandemic placed extraordinary stress on healthcare workers, with nurses on the front lines bearing the brunt of this burden. Prolonged exposure to high-stress environments, coupled with the emotional toll of caring for critically ill patients, has led to severe burnout.
Burnout is more than just feeling tired; it is a combination of emotional exhaustion, depersonalisation, and a decreased sense of personal accomplishment. Many nurses find themselves struggling with anxiety and depression as a result.
Lack of Support and Resources
Another critical factor contributing to the Great Resignation is the healthcare system's lack of support and resources. Nurses often feel undervalued despite their crucial role in patient care. Inadequate staffing levels, insufficient PPE, and a lack of access to mental health resources are also contributing to the problem. This lack of support has left many feeling disillusioned and unappreciated within the profession leading them to look at other alternatives.
Work-Life Balance
Achieving a healthy work-life balance while working as a nurse is challenging at the best of times. Since the pandemic, many nurses have found themselves working longer hours with fewer breaks, often at the expense of their personal lives. The constant stress and long shifts have made it difficult for nurses to maintain relationships, pursue hobbies, and take care of their own health.
Financial Considerations
While a passion for the job drives many to enter the nursing profession, finance also play a role in the decision to stay or leave. Many nurses feel that their pay does not reflect the level of skill, dedication, and risk associated with their work. This became even more apparent during the pandemic, and with pay increases still not reflecting the amazing work done by nurses, many are choosing to leave the profession.
The Path Forward
Understanding the reasons behind the Great Resignation is the first step toward finding solutions. Healthcare institutions must prioritise nurses' mental health and address burnout by implementing better staffing practices, ensuring adequate resources, and fostering a supportive work environment.
It's also essential for leaders to actively listen to nurses' concerns, by valuing their input and contributions, we can create a more inclusive and supportive culture within healthcare.
Finally, promoting a healthy work-life balance through flexible scheduling, adequate time off, and wellness programs can help nurses manage the demands of their job while maintaining their personal well-being. Let's work to start retaining and appreciating our amazing nurses as well as welcoming new nurses into the profession.
Self Reflections
What changes do you believe are necessary to better support nurses and prevent burnout?
How can healthcare institutions create a more supportive and inclusive environment for their nursing staff?
In what ways can we collectively advocate for better mental health resources and support systems for nurses?
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