Publication
Risk factors for trauma among psychiatric workers
Our systematic review of studies on risk factors for PTSD in nursing staff who work on psychiatric units.
What is it about?
Psychiatric hospitals can be rewarding places to work, but the work can also be stressful. The Trauma among Psychiatric Workers project ran surveys, interviews, and focus groups at psychiatric hospitals in Ontario, Canada. Two-thirds of surveyed staff had been directly exposed to at least one critical event. One out of every six screened positive for PTSD, and this rate was higher among forensic staff. Violence prevention and mental health care for exposed staff appear the most promising targets for PTSD prevention.
Why is it important?
It is normal to feel stressed after a traumatic event. The stress often decreases slowly over time. For some people, the stress reaction doesn’t go away, and it can develop into PTSD. We have found that burnout and lack of organizational support increase the risk of PTSD. Our project provides research and resources to help psychiatric hospitals and other healthcare organizations identify risks and provide evidence-based support.
Perspectives
Most people with mental disorders live productive lives in the community. Sometimes, they may need the additional support and care that a psychiatric hospital can provide. Psychiatric nurses, and other mental health care providers who work in psychiatric hospitals, help patients to manage their symptoms, and assist patients who are in crisis. Sometimes, psychiatric workers are exposed to violence or other challenging behaviors. Our project is here to help support these workers.
Dr
N Zoe
Hilton
University of Toronto
