Psychological stressors and needs among essential workers at a Singapore hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Hospital workers have borne a large burden of the COVID-19 pandemic, exposed to risks of infection, while enduring elevated workloads, increased workplace stress, prolonged hours in uncomfortable working conditions, and public stigmatisation. In this cross-sectional study, we examined the psychological stressors of COVID-19 on hospital essential services workers and their needs at a tertiary hospital in Singapore. Methods: We conducted a study of 246 outsourced essential workers comprising housekeeping, maintenance staff, and porting staff. Psychological distress was measured by the Kessler-6 scale. We also surveyed respondents through a questionnaire on the main concerns that worried them, supportive resources available, and additional resources that would most help them. Among the survey respondents, concerns related to employment, finances, accommodation, transportation, and likelihood of receiving medical attention for COVID-19 were significantly associated with moderate to severe psychological distress ( p<0.05). Stress from isolation and fear of COVID-19 infection constituted the greatest psychosocial burdens. Respondents felt that main supportive resources came from their employers and social circles. They also listed enhanced individual ability to cope, and additional financial aid from their employers and the government would help them the most. Financial and accommodation-related stressors reflect structural factors that exacerbated the psychosocial burdens faced by non-medical hospital workers. Most respondents tended to individualise their coping strategies, which point towards the need for stronger social protections and mental health provisions for hospital essential services workers.