Workplace violence against mental health professionals in Italy: a nationwide survey on prevalence and risk perception

Workplace violence in healthcare, particularly within mental health settings, is a growing global concern, associated with significant impairment on professionals’ well-being and working performance. This survey aimed to analyze the incidence of physical and verbal aggression against Mental Health Workers (MHWs) across Italy and its impact on their perceived sense of security. A total of 2704 MHWs participated in an online survey conducted in May 2023. The results revealed that 45.9% of respondents had experienced physical aggression in the previous two y.ears, with 26% being assaulted multiple times. 67.8% reported verbal threats in the last three months, multiple times in 46.9% of the sample. Inpatient psychiatric services were identified as the highest-risk environments for violence, with psychiatrists and nurses being the most affected professional groups. The study also found that male MHWs experienced higher rates of physical aggression, while older age slightly reduced the risk of violence. Finally, previous exposure to violence strongly correlated with increased feelings of insecurity at work. The findings highlight the urgent need for systemic interventions, including improved safety protocols, design for safer workplace environments, continuous training, and mental health support to mitigate the psychological and professional burden on MHWs, and ensure a safer, more supportive working environment.