‘WHAT’s there to celebrate when we’re disregarded by the society and at times by our own Government we voted for, that’s the burning question, as the World celebrates Nurses Day, today May 12?’
The remark was made by a visibly frustrated female nurse, whose identity has been withheld, at one of the far-flung areas in the country- Ganalaagte- NW, who is stationed at a local clinic that at times lack medicine, water and electricity.
“We daily face security concerns and yet, we’re expected to perform miracles when our lives are not safe, as criminals now realise we’re soft targets and enter our clinic to rob and harm us,” she said.
“So, what’s there to celebrate our profession when our own Gvt officials and the society looks down upon on us; and at times patients not receiving their medicine on time?”
In contrast, “This day, celebrated in honour of Florence Nightingale—the pioneer of modern nursing—reminds us of the critical role nurses play in our society,” says City of Johannesburg Legislature.
Sadly, according to recent International Council of Nurses (ICN) nurses well-being deserves urgent attention.
Dr Jessica Hamuy Blanco, a medical doctor and Product & Clinical Risk Executive at Dis-Chem, says the daily pressures faced by nurses across the country are not only immense, but often invisible.
“Burnout is more than just a buzzword. For nurses, it can feel like a slow erosion of the very compassion that drew them to this profession,” she explains.
The ICN report highlights a growing mental health crisis among nurses globally, particularly in countries like South Africa, where demand for care far outweighs available resources.
Dr Hamuy Blanco notes that this imbalance contributes to a workplace environment where healthcare workers are constantly stretched physically, mentally, and emotionally.
“Nurses are the backbone of the medical system and don’t always receive the recognition they deserve. They routinely work long hours, in demanding environments, and often with limited support.
But it’s not just the fatigue, it’s the emotional weight of not always being able to offer the care they know their patients need,” she says. “And often, they carry this burden quietly.”
While many nurses remain outwardly resilient, Dr Blanco points out that signs of burnout often manifest in subtle ways, from emotional withdrawal to a quiet sense of helplessness.
“Many don’t feel they have the space or permission to admit they’re struggling,” she says.
“We’re at risk of losing the very people we rely on most,” says Dr Blanco. “But this is also a moment to act with care and foresight.”
She and other healthcare advocates are calling for steps to support and retain nurses including accessible mental health services, fairer staffing levels, strong leadership that prioritises wellbeing, and recognising the value nurses bring to society.
“Caring for nurses isn’t just about policy,” she contiued.
“Because taking care of those who care for others isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s necessary for the future of healthcare in South Africa.
The ICN report also flags the concerning trend of skilled nurses leaving the profession or the country in search of better conditions, even as thousands of trained professionals remain unemployed locally due to budget constraints.
“Your tireless commitment to caring for the sick, often under challenging conditions, is a testament to your compassion, resilience, and professionalism.
Your work does not go unnoticed. You are there during life’s most vulnerable moments, offering comfort, healing, and hope.
On behalf of Council and all residents of Johannesburg, thank you for your unwavering service.
Let us all take a moment to recognise, respect, and celebrate our nurses today and every day,” says the City of Johannesburg Legislature.
Image (Celebrating World Nurses Day, but at what cost?)
