Background of the Study
Stress among healthcare workers (HCWs) is a significant global concern due to the high demands, long working hours, and emotional toll associated with patient care (Adebayo & Usman, 2023). Chronic stress can lead to burnout, decreased job performance, high turnover rates, and adverse health outcomes (Okonkwo & Yusuf, 2024). In Nigeria, particularly in Gombe State, healthcare workers face multiple challenges, including inadequate staffing, resource shortages, and exposure to traumatic patient conditions, all of which contribute to increased stress levels (Bello & Ibrahim, 2024).
Effective stress management strategies, such as mindfulness training, peer support programs, and workload adjustments, have been shown to improve job satisfaction and reduce psychological distress (Olalekan & Musa, 2023). However, many healthcare workers struggle to implement these strategies due to systemic barriers such as limited institutional support, cultural perceptions of stress, and inadequate mental health resources (Okafor & Yakubu, 2024).
This study seeks to assess the barriers to effective stress management among healthcare workers in Gombe State hospitals. By identifying these challenges, the research will provide recommendations for improving stress management practices and enhancing the well-being of HCWs.
Statement of the Problem
Healthcare workers in Gombe State hospitals experience high levels of occupational stress due to excessive workloads, staff shortages, and inadequate mental health support (Oluwaseun & Musa, 2023). Despite the known benefits of stress management interventions, many healthcare professionals fail to utilize them effectively. Previous studies suggest that factors such as institutional neglect, stigma surrounding mental health, and lack of awareness contribute to the poor adoption of stress management strategies (Ibrahim & Okonkwo, 2024).
Unchecked stress among healthcare workers negatively impacts both their well-being and the quality of patient care. It can lead to increased absenteeism, reduced efficiency, and higher rates of medical errors (Usman & Akinwale, 2023). Given the critical role of healthcare workers in delivering quality medical services, addressing the barriers to stress management is essential for improving both employee well-being and healthcare service delivery.
Objectives of the Study
To identify the common sources of stress among healthcare workers in Gombe State hospitals.
To examine the barriers preventing effective stress management among healthcare workers.
To propose strategies for improving stress management practices in hospital settings.
Research Questions
What are the major stressors affecting healthcare workers in Gombe State hospitals?
What are the key barriers preventing healthcare workers from effectively managing stress?
What interventions can improve stress management among healthcare workers in Gombe State?
Research Hypotheses
Healthcare workers in Gombe State hospitals experience significant occupational stress.
Institutional and cultural barriers significantly hinder stress management among healthcare workers.
Implementing targeted stress management interventions improves the well-being of healthcare workers.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on healthcare workers in selected hospitals in Gombe State. It will assess their experiences with stress, existing coping mechanisms, and the challenges they face in managing stress effectively. Limitations may include reluctance to discuss stress due to stigma, variations in stress levels across different hospital departments, and potential response bias in self-reported data.
Definitions of Terms
Occupational Stress: Work-related psychological and emotional strain experienced by employees due to job demands.
Stress Management: Techniques and strategies used to control and reduce stress.
Burnout: A state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged workplace stress.
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