Assessing the Coping Strategies of Healthcare Workers During COVID-19 in Jaipur, Rajasthan: An Empirical Analysis

Abstract

This study explores the coping strategies adopted by healthcare workers (HCWs) during the COVID-19 pandemic and their relationship with stress levels. A balanced representation of doctors and nurses participated, with a slightly higher proportion of males (60%) and most respondents aged 25–44, reflecting a workforce likely to experience significant occupational stress. Among coping strategies, problem-focused approaches, such as planning and addressing stressors, were the most commonly utilized (54% occasionally), though only 9% of HCWs employed them daily due to the high-pressure environment. Emotion-focused strategies, including seeking emotional support, were moderately used (39%) and played a key role in stress management, but only 28% used them daily. Avoidant-focused coping strategies, such as denial and self-distraction, emerged as the most frequently employed daily mechanism (30%), offering short-term relief but raising concerns about long-term stress implications. Regression analysis revealed significant relationships between stress levels and coping mechanisms. Avoidant-focused strategies exhibited the strongest association (R² = 0.812), followed by emotion-focused (R² = 0.765) and problem-focused coping (R² = 0.681). The findings highlight the critical need for interventions promoting sustainable stress management strategies. Enhancing problem-solving behaviors, emotional regulation, and providing organizational support are essential to improve HCWs' well-being and healthcare system resilience during crises.