Network Structure and Determinants of Professional Psychological Help‐Seeking Attitudes Among Nurses: A Cross‐Sectional Analysis

AIM: To explore the factors influencing nurses' attitudes towards seeking professional psychological help using network analysis. DESIGN: A cross-sectional study design was employed. METHODS: In Shapingba District, Chongqing, China, a two-stage sampling method was used to select 717 nurses from primary healthcare institutions and secondary public hospitals. Data were collected through anonymous online self-report surveys from November to December 2023. Multiple validated scales were used to measure mental health literacy, social support, mental illness stigma and attitudes towards seeking professional psychological help. Network analysis was conducted in R software. RESULTS: The 'Confidence in Mental Health Practitioner' was identified as a key node in the network. Social support was positively associated with the attitude of seeking help, while mental illness stigma had a negative effect. CONCLUSION: Confidence in mental health practitioners plays a key role in shaping nurses' help-seeking attitudes. Enhancing professional credibility, reducing stigma and fostering supportive environments may promote psychological help-seeking, especially in primary and secondary care settings. IMPLICATIONS FOR THE PROFESSION AND/OR PATIENT CARE: For the profession, it provides insights for developing targeted training to improve nurses' mental health. For patient care, a mentally healthy nursing workforce can enhance the quality of care. IMPACT: Addressed the problem of low rates of nurses seeking professional psychological help and the complex factors involved. MAIN FINDINGS: Key factors influencing nurses' attitudes towards seeking help and the role of confidence in mental health practitioners. The research will impact healthcare institutions, nurses and ultimately patients, as it can guide the creation of a better working environment for nurses. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION: No patient or public contribution.