Trigger Warning: This episode discusses suicide. If you're experiencing suicidal thoughts, please seek immediate help or call a suicide prevention hotline such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255), or dial 988 in the U.S. Listener discretion is advised.

On August 7, 2023, Tristin Kate Smith died at home by suicide. In the wake of this tragedy, a letter penned by Tristin titled "A Letter to My Abuser" was uncovered by her family, written five months prior to her passing. Tristin was an Emergency Department RN.

This episode takes a deep dive into the contents of Tristin's letter, unraveling its heartbreaking significance and what it reveals about the state of healthcare today.

Additionally, we scrutinize a pertinent CDC study released just months after her death, titled "Health Worker Perceived Working Conditions and Symptoms of Poor Mental Health, 2018-2022." We discuss the study's findings and its impact on our understanding of mental health in the healthcare sector and critically examine the CDC's action plan alongside recent statements by Dr. Debra Houry, the organization's Chief Medical Officer. As we navigate these sensitive topics, we aim to honor Tristin's memory and shed light on systemic issues in mental health support for healthcare workers.

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