NHS staff who worked during the pandemic should have access to a dedicated mental health service similar to that offered to veterans, leading medical organizations have said.
Health workers have suffered a “huge impact” by treating an “extremely high” number of critically ill or dying patients, according to a letter from 13 health care organizations to the government.
Some were also at risk of “moral injury and mental health disorder” due to their inability to provide essential patient care, with the health service nearly overwhelmed at the height of the pandemic.
“Despite the difference in context between deployed military personnel and health workers working during the pandemic, there are key similarities in terms of exposure to trauma and risk to psychological and physical health and we have a lot to learn from the services. of veterans’ mental health. Said the letter.
Check-up by staff of patients in the intensive care unit at Royal Papworth Hospital, Cambridge
The organizations – which include the British Medical Association and the Royal College of Psychiatrists – have warned that without more support, staff could resort to dropping out.
British veterans currently have access to a range of support, including a helpline and the Veterans Welfare Service, which provides support to all veterans and their families.
The NHS offers support packages for staff.
In England millions of pounds have been spent on mental health support for nurses, paramedics, therapists, pharmacists and support staff.
This includes telephone and SMS support services, a dedicated bereavement helpline, a dedicated app for black, Asian and minority workers, and online resources.
But medical organizations have said that support for NHS workers should learn more from the services provided to veterans.
A Ministry of Health …
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Source: news.sky.com
This notice was published: 2021-05-20 00:21:00
