Exploring The Mental Health and Well-Being of Public Healthcare Workers (HCWs) Amid Economic Crisis in Sri Lanka

Abstract

This study explores the mental health and well-being challenges faced by public healthcare workers (HCWs) in the midst of Sri Lanka’s economic crisis. Despite existing research on the psychological impacts of pandemics on HCWs worldwide, there is a dearth of qualitative investigations that specifically focus on the mental health struggles of HCWs during economic downturns. Against the backdrop of Sri Lanka’s financial crisis and the Covid-19 pandemic, this study aims to fill this research gap by exploring the lived experiences and perspectives of HCWs. From September 2023 to February 2024, researchers conducted a qualitative study of mental health outcomes among HCWs during crises in Sri Lanka. This study, through thematic analysis of interviews with doctors, nurses and healthcare assistants, explores key challenges and outcomes at personal and professional levels. The study identified four significant themes such as impact on personal relationships, unhealthy coping mechanisms, impaired job performance, and reduced job satisfaction. It demonstrates how these challenges are interconnected, leading to a cycle of negative consequences. Introducing a new framework, the study elucidates the interrelationship and impact of these challenges on adverse consequences. This research underscores the urgency to address the mental health challenges faced by health workers during economic crises, emphasizing the critical need for strong support systems. It emphasizes theoretical and managerial contributions, emphasizing the importance of organizational support, effective communication and coping mechanisms in improving the well-being of HCWs. Ultimately, this research sets the stage for future efforts to better understand and support the mental health of HCWs during crises.