THE IMPACTS OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC AND TREATMENT ON NURSES' MENTAL HEALTH

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic caused significant impacts on the mental health of nurses, who faced work overload, lack of protective equipment and constant fear of contamination. In Brazil, research carried out by the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz) and the Federal Nursing Council (COFEN) indicates that many nursing professionals developed symptoms of anxiety, depression, insomnia and burnout. The strategies adopted to mitigate these effects included the creation of psychological support lines, listening groups and psychosocial support programs, such as those promoted by the Ministry of Health. However, despite emergency initiatives, the response was insufficient given the magnitude of the crisis , and there is a growing demand for permanent programs that take care of the psychological well-being of these workers. The pandemic highlighted the need to integrate mental health support as an essential part of care for nursing professionals, reinforcing the importance of continuous promotion, prevention and treatment actions in the post-pandemic context.