• Ir J Med Sci · Jun 2023

    Dublin hospital workers' mental health during the peak of Ireland's COVID-19 pandemic.

    • Conan Brady, Caoimhe Fenton, Orlaith Loughran, Blánaid Hayes, Martina Hennessy, Agnes Higgins, and Declan M McLoughlin.
    • Dept. of Psychiatry and Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience, Trinity College Dublin, St Patrick's University Hospital, Dublin 8, Ireland.
    • Ir J Med Sci. 2023 Jun 1; 192 (3): 129313021293-1302.

    BackgroundHospital-based healthcare workers have experienced significant psychological stressors during the COVID-19 pandemic.AimTo evaluate the mental health of hospital workers during the third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Dublin, Ireland.MethodsCross-sectional anonymous online survey of hospital workers (n = 377; 181 doctors (48.0%), 166 nurses (44.0%), 30 radiographers (8.0%)), collecting demographic information, COVID-19 exposure history and mental health measures.ResultsThere were significant differences between profession groups in gender, experience, COVID-19 infection history, exposure to COVID-19 positive acquaintances, and work areas. Moderate-severe post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms were found in 45.1% (95% CI 40.1-50.1%) of all participants; significantly fewer doctors reported moderate-severe PTSD symptoms (26%; 95% CI 22-36%). A World Health Organisation-5 Wellbeing Index (WHO-5) score ≤ 32, indicating low mood, was reported by 52% (95% CI 47-57%) of participants; significantly fewer doctors reported low mood (46%; 95% CI 39-53%). One-week suicidal ideation and planning were reported respectively by 13% (95% CI 10-16%) and 5% (95% CI 3-7%) of participants with no between-group differences. Doctors reported significantly less moral injury than other groups. There were no significant between-group differences regarding coping styles. Work ability was insufficient in 39% (95% CI 34-44%) of staff; no between-group differences.ConclusionsDublin hospital workers reported high levels of PTSD symptoms, mood disturbance, and moral injury during the COVID-19 pandemic. Concerning levels of suicidal ideation and planning existed in this cohort. Differences in degrees of post-traumatic stress, moral injury, and wellbeing were found between profession groups, which should be considered when planning any supports.© 2022. The Author(s).

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