Fostering Psychological Safety and Supporting Mental Health Among Cardiovascular Health Care Workers: A Science Advisory From the American Heart Association
Laxmi S. Mehta, Keith Churchwell, Dawn M. Coleman, Judy E. Davidson, Karen L. Furie, Nkechinyere Ijioma, Jason N. Katz, Christine Moutier, Jessica Y. Rove, Richard L. Summers, Alyssa Vela, Tait D. Shanafelt
Abstract
The psychological safety of health care workers is an important but often overlooked aspect of the rising rates of burnout and workforce shortages. In addition, mental health conditions are prevalent among health care workers, but the associated stigma is a significant barrier to accessing adequate care. More efforts are therefore needed to foster health care work environments that are safe and supportive of self-care. The purpose of this brief document is to promote a culture of psychological safety in health care organizations. We review ways in which organizations can create a psychologically safe workplace, the benefits of a psychologically safe workplace, and strategies to promote mental health and reduce suicide risk.