Seeking Support: Frontline Healthcare Workers Deserve Better
Frontline healthcare workers have the potential of having to face significant stress and trauma in their daily jobs but are frequently excluded from the category of first responders, limiting their access to specialized mental health resources. This distinction has been particularly evident in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has further exposed gaps in support for these essential professionals.
A Struggle for Recognition and Support
Ace Aspiras, a respiratory therapist and childhood friend, reached out to share his story. “I was on the frontlines when the world shifted irrevocably. As a respiratory therapist, I treated the first community-spread case of COVID-19 in the United States. The weight of that responsibility, combined with the personal battles I faced, pulled me into a spiral of addiction and a negative mindset.”
Ace also described barriers to care due to real systemic issues faced by frontline healthcare workers. Despite working in high-stress environments, Ace found that many mental health programs and treatment centers were tailored specifically for law enforcement, military, and first responders. But he was turned away from some because he did not fit the "first responder" label, leaving him without the support he needed. He had to fight and advocate for treatment because organizations had no options or support specifically for frontline healthcare workers like him. Because of his experience, he asked that I expand my definition and reach by including his community - and I humbly obliged.
The COVID-19 Pandemic: Exacerbating Existing Challenges
The COVID-19 pandemic has put an unprecedented strain on frontline healthcare workers, including nurses, doctors, paramedics, and respiratory therapists. These workers were at the forefront of the crisis, facing both physical and emotional challenges. The pandemic highlighted their critical role in keeping society functioning while underscoring the lack of support available to them.
Many frontline healthcare workers experienced burnout, anxiety, depression, and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) due to the relentless pressure and exposure to traumatic events. For example, a study found that 44% of frontline healthcare staff working directly with COVID-19 patients experienced PTSD, with significant numbers reporting symptoms related to both pandemic-related and pre-existing trauma (Oxford University) (American Nurse).
Bridging the Gap: Recognizing and Supporting Frontline Healthcare Workers
There are obvious similarities between frontline healthcare workers and other first responders. Both groups endure high-stress environments, witness traumatic events, and often face life-or-death situations. Despite these similarities, frontline healthcare workers' unique experiences and contributions are frequently overlooked.
During the peak of the pandemic, many healthcare workers faced severe understaffing and resource shortages, leading to extreme working conditions and increased mental health issues. A survey revealed that 62% of healthcare workers reported negative impacts on their mental health due to COVID-19-related stress (KFF).
Expanding Our Perspective
It is crucial to expand our perspective to include frontline healthcare workers in the support structures available to first responders. Their mental health and well-being are equally important, and they should have access to resources that address their specific needs. Many healthcare workers, like Ace, have found themselves excluded from vital support services simply because their roles do not fit the traditional first responder label.
A Call to Action
The mental health needs of frontline healthcare workers cannot be ignored. We must recognize their contributions and ensure they have access to the resources they need. By expanding our definition of first responders to include frontline healthcare workers, we can begin to bridge the gap and provide comprehensive support for all those who serve our communities.
If you or someone you know is a frontline healthcare worker struggling with mental health challenges, it is important to seek support. By acknowledging the unique stressors and traumas faced by these professionals, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all those dedicated to caring for others.
