Care group brings in psychologist to help ‘shell-shocked’ staff

A North Yorkshire care group has engaged a positive psychologist to help its shell-shocked staff to cope with the stress of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Saint Cecilia’s Care Group has organised sessions with consultant Hannah Dunn to help them cope with the ongoing crisis.

Staff are being invited to a series of online workshops to discover ways to improve their mental health and protect themselves from stress during the pandemic.

During the sessions, Hannah will introduce attendees to positive psychology: information and practical skills to help them improve their happiness and wellbeing and to manage emotions.

The idea is to help staff to reduce symptoms of stress, depression and anxiety, to develop self-help skills that improve mental wellbeing and to prevent escalation of emotional issues.

Saint Cecilia’s managing director, Mike Padgham said: ‘The last 15 months have taken a huge toll on our staff as they have dealt with the physical and mental stresses and strains of compassionately caring for people during the Covid-19 pandemic.

‘I am full of admiration for each and every one of them and very keen to help them get through this as best we can.

‘I think caring for our mental health as we come through this extremely challenging period is very, very important and I hope that our staff will get benefit from the sessions we have organised with Hannah.’

The workshops will focus on self-compassion and how finding time to care for ourselves, helps people to continue caring for others and avoid stress and burnout.

Hannah said: ‘Positive Psychology is the study of what makes life worth living and the lessons we can learn from those who experience high levels of happiness and life satisfaction.

‘Rather than attempting understanding the behaviour of the few and unique, Positive Psychology is for everyone and can be applied to organisations, families and individuals alike.

‘This one-hour workshop will give you information on self-compassion and why it is especially beneficial for those working in the care sector, along with some tricks and tips on how to develop it.

‘During this session, you can sit back, relax and enjoy. By the end, you will be better equipped to put self-compassion at the top of your to-do list.’

Photo Credit – Nik Shuliahin