The COVID-19 pandemic has had an unprecedented impact on health systems in most countries, and in particular on the mental health and well-being of health workers on the front lines of pandemic response efforts.
Since Fiji recorded its first case in early 2020, the health system has been overwhelmed and stretched its capacity and resources while struggling to continue delivering quality care.
Despite their stubbornness to keep working, Health Minister Dr Ifereimi Waqainabete says he wants his staff to be revitalised.
The Minister of Health says many factors contribute to high stress among healthcare workers, leading to stress, mental depression and burnout.
“Unfortunately, there have been occasions where staff have struggled with mental illness, and it’s not something that happens out of the blue. We know from the number suggested by WHO, and we also know that they’re struggling because of how long they’ve been working because of this COVID response. That’s why we want to make it a national approach. We all need to show leadership and responsibility. “
While many continue to work, councilor Selina Kuruleca says arrangements are being made to support their mental health.
“A group of us helped support the ministry by providing mental health support. Part of this mental health support includes setting up a matchmaking system through Viber. We also had individual conversations on Viber with health workers.
Kuruleca says more than 1,000 healthcare workers have joined one of four groups created for each of the four divisions.
She says about half of them have contacted one of the ministry’s approved counselors to provide staff support.
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