NHS Staff Urged to Receive Mental Health Support Post-Pandemic

The NHS has been called upon to enhance its health services specifically for its employees, as concerns mount over the psychological impact of the Covid pandemic on healthcare workers. Health minister Stephen Kinnock plans to conduct an investigation into the matter, after reports revealed that many medical professionals are experiencing severe flashbacks linked to their pandemic experiences without any available support. Currently, only 5% of General Practitioners (GPs) are utilizing a specialized service aimed at addressing mental health and addiction issues among NHS workers.

Labour MP Peter Prinsley, who has a background as a consultant surgeon, raised alarms over the mental health crisis among doctors, sharing the story of a former medical student who reported distressing flashbacks and post-traumatic stress disorder among staff who witnessed a high number of Covid-related fatalities at a Yorkshire hospital. He noted the apprehension many healthcare workers feel about seeking help, pointing out that junior doctors without registered GPs tend to self-medicate. He stressed the importance of not abandoning these professionals to face these challenges alone.

A spokesperson from the Department for Health and Social Care acknowledged the long-standing pressures faced by NHS staff, which have been exacerbated by the pandemic, leading to burnout and demoralization. They noted ongoing investments and reforms aimed at improving NHS conditions, along with a review of mental health support for NHS staff and a forthcoming long-term workforce plan expected to be released in summer.

During the peak of the first wave of Covid in 2020, hospitals were overwhelmed with around 1,500 daily admissions, resulting in staff working extended hours to compensate for colleagues who fell ill. A report by the British Medical Association highlighted the negative impact of the pandemic on the physical and psychological well-being of doctors. NHS Practitioner Health, which provides care for health and social care professionals facing mental health and addiction issues, saw a significant rise in patients—serving 6,584 last year compared to just 1,186 in the preceding year. Anxiety remains the leading reason for seeking help from this service, especially during the pandemic, and a recent anonymous NHS staff survey indicated that 40% of respondents felt unwell due to work-related stress within a year, with a quarter reporting experiences of bullying or harassment.