Psychological impact of COVID-19 on speech and language therapists working with adult dysphagia: A national survey

CONCLUSIONS & IMPLICATIONS: This study highlights the psychological impact of COVID-19 on SLTs working with adults with dysphagia in Ireland and identifies SLTs who are at risk of depression, anxiety, stress and PTSD during the COVID-19 pandemic. Findings may assist employers to identify staff who require psychological support and long-term follow-up during this pandemic and any future health emergencies.WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS: What is already known on the subject Depression, anxiety, stress and PTSD are prevalent among nurses and other healthcare professionals internationally as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and associated factors have been identified in previous research. Despite this, no research has been conducted to establish the psychological impact of the first surge of COVID-19 on SLTs working with dysphagia in relation to depression, anxiety, stress and PTSD and the associated factors. What this paper adds to existing knowledge A total of 60% of SLTs working with adults with dysphagia in this survey presented with depression, anxiety, stress and/or PTSD. Associated personal and professional factors amongst respondents included young age, limited clinical experience and not living with children. The perspectives of SLTs on their experiences during the first surge of COVID-19 are also explored. What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work? The findings from this study may assist SLT managers to identify SLTs who are at a higher risk of depressi...
Source: International Journal of Language and Communication Disorders - Category: Speech-Language Pathology Authors: Source Type: research