A recent study in China reported that one out of every two healthcare workers reported clinically significant levels of depression and anxiety, while 70% reported psychological distress (Lai, 2020). Even when the curve has flattened and we move forward, healthcare workers on the frontlines will likely be dealing with the emotional toll this has had on them. 

While healthcare workers are needed, to care for us during this time, and have been trained in treating COVID-19 as best they can, they have not been trained to deal with this large crisis on top of the fears and stressors around the risk of being infected while working, the possibility of transmitting COVID to their loved ones, the ongoing nature of the pandemic, and the possibility of losing their lives. Thus, healthcare workers are being placed in a position where it is likely they are or will experience symptoms of stress, anxiety, and possibly trauma. 

A traumatic event or traumatic stress can occur when one is exposed to perceived or actual loss and/or death (SAMHSA, 2014). Symptoms often include guilt, shame, fear, insomnia, nightmares, anxiety, and emotional numbness. The addition of social isolation from family while working on the frontlines only adds to the stress healthcare workers are facing. Being isolated while witnessing the ongoing negative impact of COVID can have a negative impact on healthcare workers on the frontlines. 

So if you or someone you know is a healthcare worker, here are a few strategies to care for your mental health during this unprecedented time:

1. Identify support: Identity positive family members, friends, and colleagues you can turn to when needing support.

2. Maintain relationships: Focus on reaching out to those quality relationships you have. It is easy to feel as though the stress of your job shouldn’t be brought home or spoken about with others. In this pandemic, that can likely lead to having to sit with the anxiety of the unknown alone. Ensure you have quality relationships to connect with.

3. Coping skills: Identify skills that help you process and manage stress; these will continue to be helpful during the pandemic. Be sure to take time for yourself each day to utilize those self-care skills whether they be reading, talking to a friend, exercising, or anything else that can aid in lowering stress levels. 

4. Stay engaged. Connecting with others is crucial, especially when physically separated from loved ones. Make sure to plan virtual meetups or phone calls ahead of time so that they are set in place and you have ongoing support. 

If you or a loved one is in need of additional mental health support click here.