| 18 December 2024
The winter season brings a number of challenges for the healthcare sector. Staff sickness and low morale remain pressing concerns, with additional pressures due to it being flu season and there being an escalating demand for services.
What are the key winter pressures?
Winter traditionally places immense strain on healthcare systems, with Accident and Emergency (A&E) departments often hit the hardest. This year, the pressure is increased by:
- Seasonal viruses and flu: Flu season has arrived earlier in 2024 and with higher infection rates, placing additional burdens on hospitals.
- Mental health struggles: Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and worsening economic conditions are driving an increase in mental health crises.
- Staff shortages: Persistent workforce gaps, compounded by seasonal illnesses and burnout, are creating critical staffing challenges.
These factors lead to longer workdays, extra shifts, and increased stress for healthcare workers, negatively impacting their physical and emotional health. To sustain high levels of patient care and support, it’s vital to prioritise staff wellbeing and foster a positive, supportive workplace environment during these challenging winter months.
What can I do to help my staff?
Although people working in healthcare generally find their work meaningful and satisfying, they are at high risk of burnout – a psychological syndrome comprising three dimensions: a) emotional exhaustion, b) feelings of cynicism and detachment from the job, and c) a sense of ineffectiveness or lack of accomplishment.
Spot the warning signs of burnout
Senior management must champion health and wellbeing initiatives. Training managers to identify early signs of stress or burnout is crucial. These signs may include:
- Increased absenteeism
- Declining performance
- Emotional outbursts or withdrawal.
When signs are spotted, implement proactive measures such as reduced workloads, flexible scheduling, or providing access to mental health resources. Early intervention can make a significant difference in preventing burnout of your staff.
Foster a culture of trust and confidentiality
A lack of trust and fear of judgement prevent many healthcare workers from seeking help. Building trust starts with:
- Encouraging open conversations about mental health and normalising seeking support.
- Offering confidential avenues for employees to share concerns, such as anonymous hotlines or external counselling services.
- Providing options for staff to receive care outside their immediate workplace to ensure comfort and privacy.
Express gratitude and recognise contributions
Recognising and appreciating your team’s efforts is a simple yet impactful way to boost morale.
- Saying thank you. Personal thank-you notes or verbal acknowledgements for their hard work will provide a valuable boost to morale.
- Celebrating milestones, and successes. You can share news of your team’s successes in company communications and encourage peer to peer recognition.
These gestures show that leadership values each employee’s dedication and hard work, fostering a sense of belonging and motivation.
Healthcare workers are the backbone of the healthcare system, especially during the demanding winter months, so there’s never been a more pressing time to prioritise their wellbeing. Addressing morale proactively ensures better patient care, reduced turnover, and a healthier workplace culture. By spotting burnout signs early, fostering trust, and showing appreciation, organisations can navigate the challenges of winter with resilience and compassion.
Let’s ensure those who care for others receive the care they deserve.