Rethinking resilience in nursing: shifting from individual burden to collective support

Resilience is increasingly described as an essential personal trait for nurses, enabling them to endure the psychological, emotional and physical demands of their role. However, an overemphasis on individual resilience may obscure the systemic and structural factors contributing to nurse burnout. This article calls for a redefined, more inclusive approach to resilience which acknowledges the shared responsibility between nurses, healthcare organisations and policymakers. The author discusses how fostering nurses' well-being requires support for resilience through structural reforms, supportive workplace environments and access to mental health resources. A broader definition of resilience, incorporating trauma-informed leadership and inclusive workplace policies, is essential for addressing the root causes of nurse burnout and enhancing the quality of patient care.