After transitioning from bedside care, I felt a continued calling to support others and became an active member of the Peer Support Team. Nominated by leadership, we complete training in Psychological First Aid and Trauma-Informed Care to provide confidential support to colleagues facing challenges such as unexpected outcomes, litigation, regulatory events, and workplace violence.

BSWH employees from all roles can access Peer Support through the Careline, virtual TEAMS Supporting Sessions, or the Peer-to-Peer Matching process. In these supportive spaces, employees are encouraged to share their experiences, assessed for suicidality, and connected to mental health resources.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, workplace violence toward healthcare workers has escalated, with growing numbers of employees reporting trauma-related symptoms. Research shows these events can have long-term health effects, even for witnesses, when not addressed promptly. In response, I was invited to serve as a specially trained Workplace Violence Peer Delegate, a role I’ve held since its launch in January, 2025.

Formal peer support programs like these are proven to improve clinician well-being, reduce burnout, and enhance patient care, all values that closely align with my professional mission. Through this work, we strive to create a more compassionate and resilient healthcare environment.