moral distress

Moral distress occurs when a person knows the right thing to do but feels unable to act on it due to external pressures, constraints, or conflicting responsibilities. This is often seen in professions like healthcare, where workers may wish to provide the best care for patients but face barriers, such as institutional policies or limited resources. This situation can lead to feelings of frustration, helplessness, and guilt, impacting both their emotional well-being and their ability to perform their duties effectively. Essentially, it reflects the struggle between personal values and professional demands.