Nursing and mental health: a reflection in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic

Abstract

Objective: To reflect on the mental health of Nursing professionals in the context of the coronavirus pandemic. Method: This is a theoretical-reflective study based on the discursive formulation on the theme and supported by the national and international scientific literature and by the authors’ critical analysis. Results: The analyzed studies, along with the care practice, showed that Nursing professionals are susceptible to the exacerbation of symptoms such as depression, anxiety, insomnia, anguish, and stress in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, in view of their exhaustive work shifts, patients’ deaths, risk of infecting themselves and their families, and social isolation. Final considerations: The mental health of Nursing professionals needs to be listed as one of the priorities for health managers, guaranteeing strategies and public policies that ensure sanity for those who are in the front line of the fight against the pandemic.