Mental Health Toolkit Saves Lives

April 22, 2026

Responding to the ongoing needs of our members, HAP hosted a Workforce Summit that brought together clinical, administrative, and workforce leaders from across Pennsylvania to learn and share best practices for developing and engaging health care teams. We’re highlighting some of the innovative ways Pennsylvania hospitals are addressing the workforce crisis.

One way to combat the mental health challenges health care professionals face on the job is to address them directly, according to experts at AHN Forbes Hospital, (Allegheny Health Network). Investing in mental health support for their teams can help hospitals reduce stress, burnout, and workplace violence, said Tinamarie Estes-Washington, DNP, RN, PCCN, NEA-BC, during her presentation at HAP’s recent Workforce Summit.

Along with Colleen Scarantine, MS, RRT, CPPS, manager, patient safety, Estes-Washington, director of nursing/integration specialist, explained how the Mental Health First Aid training program teaches staff how to recognize signs of mental health challenges, respond in the moment, and connect people to professional support.

Estes-Washington encouraged hospital leaders to consider the skills taught in the program as “mental health CPR,” and such knowledge “empowers you to make a difference,” she said.

By equipping employees with these skills, organizations aim to create safer workplaces, reduce stigma around mental health, and build a more resilient workforce. The approach also extends beyond hospitals, helping bring mental health awareness and support into the broader community, said Estes-Washington.

Key Takeaways:

• Boiling point:  Health care workers face high levels of stress and workplace violence, which can take a serious toll on their mental health.
• Tools for success:  Mental Health First Aid provides practical ways to recognize warning signs, de-escalate situations, and support colleagues in need.
• Benchmarks:  Training is making a measurable impact, including increased confidence in responding to mental health challenges and reduced stigma among staff.
• Everybody wins:  Building a culture of support improves safety, helping protect both health care workers and patients.

HAP’s Workforce Summit brought clinical, administrative, and workforce leaders from across Pennsylvania together to learn and share best practices for developing and engaging health care teams. Watch for more #WorkforceWednesday coverage in the coming weeks of the innovative practices shared during the summit.