Outback nurse credits non-profit counselling service for saving career

Dave Corstorphan, a seasoned nurse with over three decades of experience, credits a free peer-to-peer counselling service for saving his nursing career. The outback professional, who has worked in remote parts of Australia, including the Pilbara and Kimberley regions, says he was on the brink of leaving the profession due to work stress and the tragic loss of his wife.

However, the Nurse and Midwife Health Program Victoria (NMHPV) provided him with the crucial support he needed, describing their assistance as "an absolute godsend." The peer-to-peer counselling service allows nurses and midwives to speak directly with fellow professionals who have undergone similar experiences, making it highly effective in addressing mental health challenges.

Corstorphan emphasizes the importance of speaking with counsellors who have firsthand experience in the field, as they can relate to the unique pressures and conditions nurses and midwives face. The NMHPA, a not-for-profit organization funded by the Commonwealth government, has expanded its services nationwide in 2024. The program's success in Victoria has led to this expansion, as 42% of staff seeking help work in regional locations.

Lori-Anne Sharp, CEO of NMHPA, highlights the value placed on the work of nurses and midwives while acknowledging the need for their own support, particularly in managing the challenges of shift work and long hours.

The Nurse and Midwife Health Program Australia's evaluation report reveals that the top five challenges reported by staff are anxiety and depression, stress, psychological distress, occupational violence, bullying, or harassment, and burnout. Martine Kilday, a midwife involved with the program, points out that many staff members are unaware of the available resources.

Kilday stresses the importance of nurses and midwives taking care of their own well-being, as they often prioritize others' needs first. Corstorphan encourages his colleagues in remote and regional locations — some of whom may be the only healthcare professionals in their areas — to seek help, dispelling the notion that "stoicism" is the only way to maintain professionalism.

Nursing and midwifery in remote and regional areas present unique challenges, especially for new practitioners. The perceived lack of support, burnout, and feelings of isolation are common issues due to the demanding nature of the work. Both Corstorphan and NMHPA emphasize the importance of supporting the workforce while acknowledging the rewarding and demanding nature of the job.

In Western Australia, more than 4,200 nurses and approximately 240 midwives work across regional health facilities, with Alison Weatherstone, executive director of WA's Country Health Service, emphasizing the importance of supporting these dedicated healthcare workers.