Frequency and perceived effectiveness of mental health providers’ coping strategies during COVID-19

Abstract

There has been an emphasis on understanding the detrimental effects of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) on individuals’ wellbeing. Healthcare workers, including mental health providers, may experience increased emotional and behavioral health concerns to a greater degree than the general public. The objective of the present study was to examine the frequency and the perceived effectiveness of various coping strategies implemented by mental health practitioners during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as differences across career stages (i.e., trainees versus licensed practitioners [LPs]). Survey data were collected from mental health practitioners ( N = 888) assessing the strategies they used to manage COVID-19-associated anxiety/distress and the perceived effectiveness of these strategies. Bonferroni-adjusted chi-square tests and t -tests were conducted to assess differences by career stage. Overall, respondents used various coping strategies, most commonly behavioral strategies such as distraction/engaging in an enjoyable activity (88.63%), spending time with loved ones (77.82%), and exercise (72.64%). Over one-quarter reported using alcohol to cope (28.27%). Respondents generally perceived their coping strategies as somewhat to very effective ; no strategies were generally perceived as ineffective. Compared to LPs, trainees were significantly more likely to manage COVID-19-related anxiety/distress using supervision ( p < .001) and substances other than alcohol or tobacco ( p < .001). There were no significant differences in how effective trainees and LPs perceived each strategy. U.S. mental health practitioners’ use of predominantly behavioral coping strategies, which were generally perceived as effective, during the first months of COVID-19 offers implications for interventions as the pandemic progresses.

Efficacy of coping mechanisms used during COVID-19 as reported by parents of children with autism

“…Further, these same four maladaptive strategies were also rated among the top five strategies with respect to efficacy, which a novel finding. This finding is consistent with the idea that maladaptive behaviors may be used by individuals with ASD to cope with anxiety and stress [ 31 – 39 ], and is also consistent to research with other populations showing that maladaptive strategies (such as catastrophizing and alcohol use) can be rated as effective stress-reducing strategies [ 41 , 52 ]. Given the association between maladaptive strategy use and psychological distress and poor mental health [ 18 , 22 , 53 ], efforts should be made to assist individuals with ASD to develop more adaptive strategies as replacements.…”

Could mindfulness diminish mental health disorders? The serial mediating role of self-compassion and psychological well-being

“…The COVID-19 pandemic has caused several devastating consequences in many sectors around the world and in different aspects of life, such as the economy, society, and public health in particular (Nicola et al, 2020 ; Pak et al, 2020 ; Vo-Thanh et al, 2021 , 2022 ; Vu et al, 2022 ). In addition, this pandemic has destructive psychological outcomes on mental health symptoms, partially relying on individuals’ features (Reilly et al, 2021 ), including university students (Sun et al, 2021 ).…”

Bereaved in Me: Understanding the Vicarious Grief Experiences Among Helping Professionals During the COVID-19 Pandemic

“…HPs reported trying a variety of ways to cope including disengaging from stressful situations and engaging in pleasurable activities such as reading, watching shows, and exercising. These strategies are frequently used to relieve stress ( Reilly et al, 2021 ). HPs also reported using faith practices that are helpful in managing negative emotions ( AlJhani et al, 2021 ).…”

“…HPs also utilize social support that has been shown to be a protective factor from the adverse effects of problematic situations ( Manning-Jones et al, 2016 ). Moreover, a few reported receiving supervisorial and organizational support that have been linked with lower levels of traumatic stress ( Reilly et al, 2021 ).…”