- 46%of nurses report burnout (ANA 2023)
- 18%have considered suicide (Journal of Emergency Nursing)
- 60%say their workplace doesn't prioritize their mental health
Nursing is one of the most emotionally demanding professions on the planet. You witness trauma, loss, and suffering daily — often without enough time, staff, or support to process any of it. Nearly half of all nurses report burnout. Yet most nurses don't know which free resources are actually available to them right now, in their state, for their specialty.
This finder cuts through the noise. Pick your state, the kind of support you want, and what you can pay, and it filters a list of 22 nurse-relevant resources down to the ones that fit, with links you can use today.
How to Use This Tool
Pick your urgency
Choose crisis, soon, or planning. Crisis puts the 24/7 lines at the top of your list. Nothing you pick leaves your browser.
Choose your state (optional)
Picking a state adds its confidential nurse peer assistance program if it is one of the 10 states on file (CA, TX, NY, FL, OH, PA, IL, NC, MA, MI). National resources show for every state.
Filter by type and cost
Pick the kinds of support you want (therapy, peer support, groups, psychiatry, addiction recovery, trauma care) and the costs that work for you. The finder shows up to 14 matches with descriptions and direct links. No upsells.
Types of Support for Nurses
Peer Support Programs
State and hospital-based peer support networks run by nurses, for nurses. Confidential, no documentation.
Free & Low-Cost Therapy
The Emotional PPE Project, Open Path Collective, EAP programs, and therapists who specialize in healthcare worker trauma.
Crisis Lines & Immediate Help
988 Lifeline, Crisis Text Line, and nurse-specific crisis resources for when you need support right now.
Burnout Recovery Resources
Structured burnout recovery programs, leave options, FMLA guidance, and return-to-work support.
State Board Assistance Programs
Confidential programs through state BONs that provide support without license jeopardy in most cases.
Online Communities
Vetted nurse mental health communities, subreddits, Facebook groups, and Discord servers for peer connection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What free mental health resources are available for nurses?
Nurses have access to several free resources including the Nurse Support Program (NSP) which offers free confidential counseling, the Emotional PPE Project connecting nurses to therapists at no cost, Crisis Text Line (text HOME to 741741), the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, and many state Board of Nursing peer assistance programs. Hospital Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) also typically provide free short-term counseling sessions.
Is there a peer support program for nurses?
Yes. The ANA supports peer support networks and many hospitals have formal Peer Support programs where trained nurse peers provide confidential emotional support after difficult patient events. The Emotional PPE Project and organizations like Nurses on FIRE also offer community-based peer support for nurses at every career stage.
How do I access the Nurse Support Program?
The Nurse Support Program is available in several states and can be accessed through your state Board of Nursing or employer. It provides free, confidential peer support and referrals. You can search for your state's specific program through the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN).
What is the Emotional PPE Project?
The Emotional PPE Project is a nonprofit that connects healthcare workers to licensed mental health professionals at no cost. Launched during COVID-19, it continues to serve nurses nationwide. You apply on their website and get matched with a therapist who understands the unique pressures of healthcare work. It's genuinely free.
Can I get free therapy as a nurse?
Yes — multiple ways. Your hospital's EAP typically provides 6-12 free therapy sessions. The Emotional PPE Project offers free licensed therapy. Open Path Collective provides sliding-scale sessions ($30-$80). Some state nurse assistance programs include free counseling. Your union benefits may also cover mental health services.