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The Gritty Nurse

The Gritty Nurse is back, and NO TOPIC is off-limits! Launching in September 2025 with host Amie Archibald Varley, this podcast is dedicated to amplifying the voices of nurses and others who work in healthcare to explore the most pressing issues they face. Join Amie as she continues to take a deep dive into powerful and often uncomfortable topics. Though shared experriences, storytelling and the discussions surrounding the intersection of power, we will navigate the challenges facing healthcare nationally and internationally--as of course--challenge the status quo. The show's core belief remains unwavering: that compassion is the through understanding diverse narratives and perspectives is KEY. Amie will continue to explore hot-button issues like mental health, social justice, women's health, and the daily challenges within the nursing profession. The Gritty Nurse is more than just a podcast—it's a community where nurses and healthcare workers can feel heard, empowered, and recognized as the community leaders they truly are. Change is HERE.
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Is Nursing a Profession Worth Dying For? No, it's Not...

Sep 18, 2025

Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions on suidcide. 

In this episode, The Gritty Nurse, Amie Archibald-Varley discusses the tragic story of Roseanne, a nurse who died by suicide, highlighting critical issues in mental health staffing, accountability in healthcare, and the need for systemic change. The conversation emphasizes the importance of recognizing warning signs of suicide and supporting colleagues in the nursing profession. Through personal anecdotes and advocacy for better mental health care, the episode calls for a shift in how the healthcare system addresses these pressing issues.

If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in North America for 24/7, free, and confidential support, or dial 911 for life-threatening emergencies. You can also find local resources through the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) or the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), and don't hesitate to reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or doctor for help. 

https://988.ca/ (Canada)

https://988lifeline.org/ (USA) 

Chapters

00:00 Intro and Amie's Story
07:35 Critical Issues in Mental Health In Healthcare 
17:25 Rosanne's Story: Accountability in Healthcare: Who is Responsible? 
23:04 Vital Signs: Changing the Narrative on Mental Health
39:03 A Call to Action: Resources and Support for Nurses

Takeaways

The story of a nurse's suicide highlights systemic failures.
Understaffing in mental health units is a critical issue.
Nurses should never work alone in high-risk situations.
Violence against nurses is often normalized and overlooked.
Accountability in healthcare organizations is lacking.
Mental health care must prioritize safety and support for nurses.
Suicide prevention requires a cultural shift in healthcare.
Vulnerability among healthcare providers can foster connection.
Recognizing warning signs of suicide is essential for support.
The 988 hotline is a vital resource for those in crisis.

Episode Links

https://globalnews.ca/news/11110293/bc-nurse-dies-by-suicide-attacks-on-the-job/

https://www.clarksfuneral.ca/obituaries/Rosanne-Wallace?obId=40163864

Donations To Honor Rosanne's Memory:

GoFundMe https://gofund.me/7dbdf031.

Sarah (Sarita Warren) https://sarahewarren.com

Don't Clock Out https://www.dontclockout.org

Keywords

nurse suicide, mental health, healthcare accountability, staffing issues, violence in nursing, suicide prevention, healthcare reform, nurse support, mental health advocacy, healthcare workers