Work

Resilience, psychosomatic health, and support needs of Ukrainian healthcare professionals in wartime: A cross-sectional study

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: As Ukraine enters its third year of war, healthcare professionals (HPs) continue to face ongoing challenges to their adaptability and resilience. This study aimed to assess the emotional and physical well-being of HPs, evaluate their resilience levels, and identify the most anticipated types of psychological support that would benefit them. METHODS: Emotional and somatic states were assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-15). Resilience was measured by the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC-10). Open-ended questions were used to identify anticipated measures of psychological support. RESULTS: A total of 1442 HPs participated in the study. The majority exhibited high levels of anxiety and depression. Resilience scores showed negative correlations with anxiety (r = -0.34), depression (r = -0.53), and somatic symptom severity (r = -0.36). The most desired types of psychological support included psychological counselling, spiritual support, and opportunities for rest. CONCLUSION: It is essential to address the primary needs of HPs in Ukraine to support their professional and personal resilience during wartime. Psychological support should not only focus on treating symptoms and distress but also respond to deeper needs that foster hope and faith in a better future.

Source: Journal of Psychosomatic Research

DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2024.111995

Authors: Anastasiia Yuriivna Sydorenko, Lennart Kiel, Helle Spindler

Institutions: Aarhus University, Bogomolets National Medical University

Language: English

Topic: COVID-19 and Mental Health

Subfield: Clinical Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,340