New Programme Helps Frontline Healthcare Workers at Risk from PTSD and Depression

Researchers from the Department of Experimental Psychology at the University of Oxford have developed a new mental health treatment programme to provide frontline healthcare workers with 1-to-1 support, including fast-track access to PTSD or depression treatment. This evidence-based programme, called SHAPE Recovery , builds on an outreach programme shown to reduce rates of PTSD and depression. SHAPE Recovery is working with 3,300 frontline healthcare workers across England and has now been invited to work with 8,000 London Ambulance employees and staff from associated partner organisations. Around the world, frontline healthcare workers, such as intensive care doctors, nurses, support staff and paramedics, are risking their lives daily to stem the tide of the COVID-19 pandemic. They are at an increased risk of developing mental health problems, such as a severe stress reaction called post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as well as depression, sleep problems and anxiety. Although many hospitals offer well-being initiatives, there is little evidence to support their effectiveness and they require staff to come forward for help. It is evidence-based, affordable, and with ongoing evaluation could, if needed, be incorporated within NHS services within 12 to 24 months. Associate Professor Jennifer Wild , Programme Lead, said: 'SHAPE is based on 15 years of research to examine what predicts PTSD and depression in frontline workers.