In the demanding world of caregiving, whether in schools, community services, or healthcare settings, the emotional and mental toll on staff is often overlooked. This phenomenon, known as the “cost of caring,” can have profound effects on the well-being of those who dedicate their lives to supporting others.
Recent data highlights the growing issue of sickness absence among NHS staff in England. According to the Nuffield Trust, the sickness absence rate for NHS staff in 2022 was 5.6%, significantly higher than the pre-pandemic rate of 4.3%1. This increase equates to approximately 74,500 full-time equivalent staff being absent, including 20,400 nurses and 2,900 doctors1. Additionally, the CIPD reports that the average rate of employee absence across the UK has risen to 7.8 days per employee per year, the highest in over a decade. These statistics underscore the pressing need for improved health and wellbeing support for frontline practitioners.
As we delve into the importance of addressing staff’s mental health, we will explore the benefits and value of clinical supervision, supported by these recent statistics and insights.
The cost of caring refers to the emotional and psychological burden that front line practitioners experience due to the nature of their work- the trauma they see, hear and read will impact the frontline practitioners. This burden can manifest as stress, burnout, and vicarious trauma. Frontline practitioners that are not able to process the trauma they have been exposed to are at risk of experiencing mental ill health and physical health difficulties.
For Themselves: Frontline practitioners often prioritise the needs of others over their own, leading to neglect of their mental health. This can result in practitioners experiencing symptoms such as intense feelings of anxiety, low mood, difficulties with sleeping and eating. Ensuring that staff have time to reflect upon their work and the impact it has on them helps them maintain their well-being and continue to provide high-quality care.
For Their Families: The mental health of frontline practitioners directly affects their families. When practitioners are feeling overwhelmed, it can strain family relationships and create an unhealthy home environment. Supporting staff mental health ensures they can be present and engaged with their loved ones.
For Their Schools and Organisations: Healthy, well-supported staff are more productive, engaged, and effective in their roles. This leads to better outcomes for the organisations/services they work for, whether it’s a school, community service, or healthcare facility. A positive work environment also reduces staff turnover, absenteeism and presenteeism.
For Children and Families They Care For: The quality of care provided is directly linked to the frontline practitioner’s mental health. When staff are mentally healthy, they can offer more compassionate, patient, and effective support to those they care for. This is especially crucial in educational and residential home settings, where the well-being of children is paramount.
Clinical supervision is typically delivered by clinical professionals such as qualified Psychologists. The clinical supervisions sessions provide caregivers with a safe space to reflect on their work and its impact, process the trauma they have been exposed to, and develop their psychological mindedness.
Emotional Support: Clinical supervision offers a confidential safe environment where staff can discuss the challenges they are facing and their feelings. This helps to process their experiences and alleviating stress.
Professional Development: Through regular supervision, staff can gain insights into their practice, learn new strategies, and improve their skills. This continuous learning process enhances their professional growth and job satisfaction.
Improved Mental Health: By addressing the emotional impact of their work, clinical supervision helps staff maintain their mental health. This, in turn, enables them to provide better care and support to others.
Enhanced Team Cohesion: Supervision sessions can foster a sense of community and support among staff members. Sharing experiences and solutions can strengthen team bonds and create a more supportive work environment.
By prioritising the mental health of staff through initiatives like clinical supervision, we can create a healthier, more supportive environment for caregivers. This not only benefits the staff themselves but also their families, organisations, and the individuals they care for.
It’s time to take action. If you are a frontline practitioner or manage a team, consider implementing regular access to clinical supervision sessions. Encourage open conversations about mental health and provide access to professional support. Together, we can ensure that those who care for others are also cared for.
Book a call with Dr. Asha Patel, Clinical Psychologist and CEO of Innovating Minds to learn more about Clinical Supervision.