Workplace Well-being, Perceived Social Support, and Stress among Healthcare Professionals in High and Low-exposure Units: A Comparative Study

Description

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.19483308

Garima Chauhan (Clinical Psychologist, Independent Researcher, New Delhi)

Healthcare professionals across the globe often work in challenging environments, thus they are more susceptible to face high levels of stress and low levels of workplace well-being. This risk becomes even more adverse for those working in high-exposure units, like COVID-designated wards, as they have to encounter additional physical and mental difficulties on duty. The aim of this study is to examine workplace well-being, perceived social support and stress among healthcare workers posted in high and low exposure hospital units. The researcher assessed a total of 220 healthcare workers, out of which 110 participants were posted in high-exposure units and 110 participants were posted in low-exposure units. The participants completed standardized assessments that measured mental well-being, social support, and perceived stress. Results and conclusion: Healthcare workers posted in high-exposure units had significantly lower levels of workplace well-being and perceived social support, while also having high levels of stress as compared to workers posted in low-exposure units. Additionally, it was found that social support had a positive correlation with workplace well-being and a negative correlation with stress. Thus, there is a need for emphasis on providing supportive work environments to lower stress and improve workplace well-being.