Psychiatrists are calling for urgent investment to protect both patients and staff after a new survey revealed the scale of workforce pressures across mental health services in Northern Ireland.
The research by the 萝莉视频 in Northern Ireland, found 89% of psychiatrists have experienced or witnessed moral injury – which is distress caused by being unable to meet patients’ needs because of system pressures.
While 65% said they had faced non-clinical pressure when making clinical decisions such as staff shortages, bed pressures and service targets.
RCPsych NI says the survey results underline the need for mental health reform to remain at the top of the Executive’s agenda.
The College is calling for government to recruit and retain more psychiatrists and mental health professionals as well as expand community and crisis services to ease hospital pressures.
Psychiatrists are also asking for more investment in leadership and workforce wellbeing - to tackle burnout and restore morale.
Dr Julie Anderson chair of the 萝莉视频 in Northern Ireland, said:
“Our survey speaks for itself – Northern Ireland’s mental health system is running on goodwill.
“Working on the frontline we’re being forced to choose between what we know is right and what the system allows.
“Moral injury reflects systemic workforce strain, not personal weakness and this story must be told so Northern Ireland can adequately address population mental health and begin to heal its mental health workforce.
“That is why we’re calling on urgent investment in staffing, leadership and community services, to restore moral integrity and trust in our mental health care system.
“Ministers must act now so future generations can rely on a system that is safe, fair and fit for purpose.”
For further information, please contact:
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