Public Healthcare Workers in the Mental Health Field: Unveiling Their Challenges and Concerns

Nearly 60% of respondents are considering or debating leaving their workplace in the public sector, with 27% considering leaving and 31% weighing the decision. Psychiatrists, both adult and child, reported particularly high percentages of considering leaving due to dissatisfaction with pay. Over 80% of adult psychiatrists and 57% of child psychiatrists cited wage disparities between the public and private sectors as their main reason for wanting to leave.

Other reasons for wanting to stay in the public system included a sense of mission, satisfaction in helping disadvantaged populations, job stability, and rights. The sense of mission was a key factor among all respondents, including those considering leaving. Employment stability and satisfaction with helping disadvantaged populations were low among those who are considering leaving compared to those who are not.

Caregivers in the public service provided valuable feedback on workload, working conditions, salary, physical environment, appreciation, lack of professional satisfaction, and the ability to provide quality care. The mental health system received low scores in integrating technology and innovation, with a need for improvements in accessibility of services, information access, and remote treatment.

Survey results on remote mental health care showed varying levels of effectiveness. Multi-systemic change is needed to address shortages in manpower and availability of services. Strengthening the mental health system is crucial for reducing caregiver shortages and improving overall care across the board.

Overall, these findings highlight the need for significant changes within the public sector’s mental health system to improve working conditions, address wage disparities between public and private sectors while maintaining a strong sense of mission among caregivers.