Lessons for mental health systems from the COVID-19 front line: Chinese healthcare workers’ challenges, resources, resilience, and cultural considerations.

Frontline health providers who worked in Hubei, China, during the initial outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) experienced poorer mental health outcomes than those who worked elsewhere in China, but many of these workers denied psychological challenges and did not use resources when offered. This study investigated challenges, mental health, sources of strength, and coping strategies among frontline healthcare professionals working in the initial Hubei COVID-19 outbreak. Healthcare workers (N = 23) who went to Hubei during the COVID-19 outbreak completed a semistructured interview about their experiences at the front line and use of mental health resources. Thematic analysis revealed several challenges participants faced as a result of their work conditions. The vast majority of participants reported physical and psychological symptoms. Nevertheless, some denied experiencing any distress, and none accessed psychological assistance as a way of self-care. Participants described their social network as particularly helpful as they were coping with the intensive work demands and that their strong sense of responsibility for patients and trust in the medical system were sources of strength. Our findings highlight that even in the face of stress-related challenges, healthcare workers may not seek care for their physical and psychological symptoms, which may lead to persistent mental health consequences. Implications for providing mental health services to healthcare providers and first responders are discussed in the Chinese cultural and societal context;we offer considerations for bridging health resources in China with the potential for establishing a more responsive and equitable mental health infrastructure. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved)