- 期刊
Protecting Mental Health for Healthcare Staff During the COVID-19 Pandemic
摘要
Objective: The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has an adverse impact on the mental health of healthcare staff during the pandemic. In this article, we aimed at providing our experiences in reinforcing the mental health of frontline professionals as they faced the crisis. Methods: Three steps were taken to empower healthcare staff while coping with the COVID-19 crisis at a university hospital in Taiwan. First, mental health information related to stress reaction and management was provided for all staff of the hospital via emails. Second, the Departments of Infectious Diseases, Intensive Care, Emergency Medicine, and other departments involved in the care of COVID-19 patients were further evaluated for the potential risk of occupation-related emotional distress. Finally, individualized assessment and interventions were provided for the quarantined staff. Results: We sent mental health communications to all hospital staff (n = 2,851) via emails, including 15 frontline department directors. Besides, 10 quarantined staff received psychological consultations and follow-ups. Positive impacts were reported from the department directors and their staff. Their feedbacks and suggestions were gathered and summarized. Conclusions: Our results showed that psychological support for healthcare workers on the frontline of fighting the COVID-19 pandemic could be successfully reinforced through dissemination of electronic educational information as well as department-based and individualized interventions.