Serious mental illness in healthcare and academia: A lived experience

WHAT IS KNOWN ON THE SUBJECT?: There are individuals living with serious mental illness in both healthcare and academia. The high stress nature of these fields can worsen or trigger mental illness, burnout, moral injury, and compassion fatigue in employees. Mental health nurses have the needed skillset to foster change in these settings. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS TO EXISTING KNOWLEDGE?: This paper describes the holistic experiences of a nurse faculty member living with serious mental illness and highlights lessons learned in both healthcare and academic settings. In addition to insights from the experience, the paper also shares suggestions for moving forward, reducing burnout, and supporting employees in these fields. WHAT ARE THE IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE?: This lived experience narrative showcases the effect that high-pressure occupations have on individuals with serious mental illness. Mental health nurses have the training and experience to transform the experiences of employees in healthcare and academia. Through assessment, deep listening, and powerful questioning, these nurses in partnership with the employees themselves can design and implement interventions that have a lasting impact for these populations. ABSTRACT: Introduction First-hand accounts from clients living with mental health challenges deepen provider understanding and offer direct insight into the lives of those with chronic mental illness. There is a gap in the literature surrounding the lived experience of serious mental illness in the professional setting. Aim This narrative outlines the challenges and opportunities for those living with serious mental illness in healthcare and academia. Methods The author reviewed personal journals and reflected upon her years as both a nurse and faculty member to highlight the experience of living with serious mental illness in these professions. Findings These high-pressure fields place inordinate demands on faculty and staff; yet, there are few organizational supports in place for employees. Despite the push to improve resiliency and ease burnout, healthcare organizations and academic institutions still struggle to identify the best interventions and methods of support for staff. Discussion Mental health nurses and nurse coaches are uniquely positioned to ease this burden and help create inclusive workplaces for those with serious mental illness.