The Public Health Worker Mental Health Crisis - A Major Leadership Challenge

Abstract

No simple summary or set of suggestions can do justice to the complexities of the moral injuries and mental health crisis being experienced by the public health workforce. Nevertheless, public health leaders can play a very positive role by first acknowledging the nature and significance of this crisis, followed by advocating for and modeling those behaviors that may contribute to restoring routine, fostering recovery, and promoting renewal of spirit and commitment. Clearly, addressing this challenge will be no less daunting than addressing the extraordinary challenges of the COVID-19 response itself. In doing so, however, public health leaders can renew the sense of dedication and commitment to service that has characterized the public health workforce for decades and will be central to success for many decades to come.