Protecting the Warriors of COVID-19 Pandemic: Analysing the Mental Health of the Healthcare Workers

Abstract

Purpose: The research objective was to critically analyze the prevalence of any kind of mental health problem among healthcare workers (HCWs) and to investigate the factors affecting the mental health of HCWs and how they impact their mental health. Design/methodology/approach: The data was collected using a structured questionnaire from the health care workers working in the leading hospitals from the Muscat region in Oman. The questionnaires were sent to more than 300 healthcare workers out of which only 202 of them filled and returned. The analysis was carried out using Smart Partial Least Squares (PLS). Findings: The study revealed that during the pandemic, HCWs were having the typical symptoms of anxiety such as nervousness, difficulty in concentrating, restlessness, and too much fear for everything. They also had the symptoms of Depression such as frustration and no interest in doing things, feeling no energy to carry out their routines, and worrying about everything. They underwent the PTSD symptom of getting disturbing thoughts and memories. The results also revealed that the HCWs were constantly living under stress, frustration, and pressure which was directly affecting their routines and practices. Their frustration and stress were unnoticed and ignored as they continued treating the patients eventually. Research limitations/implications: It is recommended that the concerned authorities should understand the psychological issues of the HCWs and provide appropriate facilities, training, and moral support. They can be motivated through lectures. Working hours and the number of patients can be reduced. Training for mental stress reliefs and more precautionary equipment should be provided to them to effectively fight against COVID-19. Social Implications: The mental health of healthcare professionals is imminent and cannot be ignored. The study helps the authorities in charge of HCWs to take appropriate and immediate action to observe and reduce anxiety and depression among those working in the frontline. Further, the timely logistic support, Pay raise, bonuses or rewards, expanded vacation time, and the full equipment for safety from COVID-19 could avoid such mental disturbances. Originality / Value: There is no study on the mental health of HCWs in Oman. Due to lockdown and social boycotting, online surveys were the only available option left. Data were obtained from those HCWs who were computer literate and from a few health care institutes only. The study can be extended to include HCWs from other institutes as well. Keywords: Mental Health, HealthCare Workers in Oman, Anxiety, Depression, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Psychological Status