EXPLORING COPING MECHANISMS USED BY NURSES TO MAINTAIN MENTAL WELL-BEING IN CLINICAL PRACTICE: A QUALITATIVE STUDY

Abstract

Nurses are frequently exposed to demanding workplace conditions that may adversely affect their mental well-being. Occupational stress resulting from heavy workloads, staffing shortages, long working hours, shift duties, and the emotional demands of patient care can lead to psychological distress and burnout. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the sources of stress experienced by nurses in their professional practice and the coping mechanisms they employ to maintain their mental well-being. A qualitative exploratory descriptive research design was adopted to gain an in-depth understanding of nurses' experiences. Participants were selected using a purposive sampling technique, targeting registered nurses with at least one year of clinical experience. Data were collected through semi-structured, face-to-face interviews using an interview guide developed from the study objectives and relevant literature. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using Braun and Clarke's six-step thematic analysis approach. The findings revealed two major themes: Sources of Stress and Coping Strategies. Sources of stress included workplace-related factors such as heavy workload and staffing shortages, long working hours, management of critically ill patients, administrative demands, and the psychological consequences of stress, including emotional exhaustion, anxiety, fatigue, work–life imbalance, and burnout. Coping strategies included personal coping practices, social support systems, spiritual and religious coping, and resilience-building through professional growth and experience. The study concludes that while nurses encounter substantial occupational stressors, they utilize a range of adaptive coping mechanisms to preserve their mental well-being. The findings highlight the importance of supportive workplace environments, adequate staffing, mental health support services, resilience-building initiatives, and opportunities for self-care. It is recommended that healthcare organizations implement comprehensive strategies to reduce workplace stress and promote nurses' psychological well-being, ultimately enhancing both staff retention and the quality of patient care.