How might the NHS protect the mental health of health-care workers after the COVID-19 crisis?

The article discusses the services to protect the mental health of health care workers after COVID-19 crisis. There are four key elements in an evidence-based staff National Health Service recovery plan. First, giving thanks, both written and verbally, which acknowledges the challenging work undertaken, can foster individual resilience. This communication should include accurate up-to-date information about potential psychological difficulties and supports. Second, return-to-normal work interviews by supervisors who feel confident speaking about mental health. These interviews allow for a better understanding of a staff member's experiences, while identifying secondary stressors in order to collaboratively design individualized recovery plans. Such discussions reduce sickness absence in other trauma-exposed occupations. Third, active monitoring for anyone exposed to potentially traumatic events, particularly individuals considered to be at higher risk of developing mental health problems. Although such monitoring is another function of good management, evidence supports proactive case finding, which proved successful after the London bombings. encourage honest and meaningful responses while providing automated tailored feedback. Fourth, group discussions to help staff to develop a meaningful narrative that reduces risks of harm. Successful recovery planning should minimize the onset of mental illness while maximizing the opportunity for psychological growth. Proactive managers should follow the evidence, which is both legally required and what staff deserve. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved)