Nurses at higher risk of depression – can nutrition support well-being? 

The link between nutrition and depression is well established: health-promoting diets, such as the Mediterranean diet, are associated with a lower risk of depression. However, this relationship is complex, and it remains unclear whether nutrition can effectively reduce symptoms of depression or enhance work capacity.

Researcher Aino Kipfer from Satakunta University of Applied Sciences explains,
– Healthcare professionals working in mental health, substance abuse services, and psychiatric care are documented to be at higher risk for depressive symptoms. Early intervention is essential for supporting mood and maintaining work ability.

Recruitment for the study is now underway

Participants will include practical nurses, registered nurses, and social workers from the Pori area in Satakunta, working across mental health, substance abuse services, and psychiatric care. Half of the participants will receive personalized nutritional guidance, both individually and in groups, over six months, as well as a tailored nutrition plan and health assessments at the beginning and end of the study.

Susanna Kunvik, Senior Researcher and Project Manager, notes,
– The study aims to reduce symptoms of depression, improve diet, work ability, and quality of life, and decrease absenteeism among participants.

If successful, this study will provide valuable insights and a new model for nutritional guidance in occupational health services. This research is the first of its kind in Finland, as the effects of nutrition on depressive symptoms and work ability have not previously been explored among mental health and substance abuse professionals.

Read more on the Mind Nutrition study at: mindnutrition.samk.fi.