Presumptive Legislation Round Table – The Fight for Presumptive Legislation with Guests Katrina Stephenson and Heather Murray

By Rachel Steel and Gerri Logan

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In this episode, hosts Rachel Steel and Gerri Logan explore the urgent need for presumptive legislation to protect nurses from psychological injuries such as PTSD and burnout. They are joined by Heather Murray and Katrina Stephenson, two passionate advocates fighting for policy changes recognizing mental health struggles as a workplace hazard for nurses. 

The episode underscores the broader implications of inaction, warning that without proper mental health support, nurses will continue to leave the profession at alarming rates, worsening the ongoing healthcare crisis. The hosts and guests emphasize collective action, urging nurses to unite in advocating for policy changes that recognize and address these mental health challenges.

**Trigger warning** The discussion includes mention of suicide as it relates to job-related mental health injuries.  

About the Guests:

Heather Murray

Heather Murray is a registered nurse with over 15 years of experience in emergency and critical care. A longtime advocate for nurse mental health, she has worked closely with professional associations and policymakers to push for presumptive PTSD legislation. Having personally experienced the emotional toll of frontline nursing, Heather is committed to ensuring that future generations of nurses receive better protection and access to mental health resources.

Katrina Stephenson

Katrina Stephenson is a nurse educator and mental health specialist who has spent the last decade supporting nurses dealing with trauma and burnout. She is a CAF Mental Health & Wellness Nurse and nurse Leader with Nurse 2 Nurse Peer Support. Katrina believes we need to approach each other with compassion and understanding around mental health and substance use challenges to reduce stigma and discrimination. She has been instrumental in bringing awareness to psychological injuries in nursing, speaking at conferences, and lobbying for legislative reforms.