A conceptual framework for supporting the mental health of the health workforce and key determinants. (20th October 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lionis, Christos
• Is Part Of: European journal of public health. Volume 31(2021)Supplement 3
• Publication Date: 2021-10-20
• Subjects: Epidemiology -- Europe -- Periodicals; Public health -- Europe -- Periodicals; 362.109405
• DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckab164.148
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1101-1262

Abstract

Abstract: EXPH members and Opinion collaborators A conceptual framework was developed to guide the Opinion. The visual representation shows how determinants of mental health interact and displays the evolution of various mental health profiles of an individual over time under different stressful scenarios. Mental health is a continuum of two dimensions - mental wellbeing and mental health-illness. Mental health is influenced by a complex interplay of determinants. At work, these include both non-occupational and occupation-specific factors that interact. Following a particularly stressful event, an individual may face a possible deterioration in their mental health. There are various trajectories. The individual can respond or cope effectively and maintain his/her current level of mental health. If the stressor is intense, severe, and/or prolonged, deterioration in mental health may result. The level of deterioration depends on prior mental health and the interaction of non-occupational and occupation-specific factors. A recovery in mental health from the stressor may occur spontaneously or some form of intervention may be needed. Intervention could help to mitigate the appearance of a stressor (primary prevention), to mitigate impact of the stressor on mental health and/or ensure a rapid recovery from the stressor (secondary prevention), and/or decrease the rate of deteriorating mental health (tertiary prevention). Work-related risk factors related to mental health in the health workforce include issues related to role, relationships, control, demand, job-related factors, organizational environment, career-related factors, and interaction with non-work factors. Exposure-related concerns, burnout, and moral injury have received considerable attention during the COVID-19 pandemic.