Issue:
Mental ill-health among Ontario healthcare workers is a growing concern, accounting for up to one-third of all short-term and long-term disability claims, and almost 70% of the total disability costs. Presenteeism is also a significant issue; working despite mental illness can compromise the health and safety of workers, their colleagues, and their patients. Despite the prevalence and impact of mental ill health among healthcare workers, their issues are often surrounded by secrecy, stigma, and silence. Early identification and support to overcome the silence is critical to prevent psychosocial disability and facilitate opportunities for treatment and recovery. Contact-based education, involving individuals with lived experience of mental ill-health reduces barriers related to stigma and silence.
Objectives:
The purpose of this project is to develop and evaluate a peer-led education program to facilitate early identification of mental ill-health among healthcare workers. Key stakeholders in a large urban hospital will be engaged in the process of program development, identifying supports and barriers, and developing a protocol for implementation and evaluation. Interviews and focus groups will be conducted, and the receptivity and resources required for implementation will be assessed in order to determine feasibility for the next phase of implementation and systematic evaluation.
Anticipated Results:
Development of a peer-led education curriculum that is tailored to the needs of healthcare workers; increased stakeholder awareness and support for the peer education initiative; and identification of a protocol for implementation and evaluation.
Investigators:
Sandra Moll (McMaster University)
