INTRODUCTION
Surgical training hones one to be tough, yet calm especially during
stressful periods. During these unprecedented times, all clinicians are
susceptible to mental stress. Measures should be taken, both at an
organisational and at a personal level to provide service while
minimising risks to all healthcare professionals.
Irrespective of specialty, healthcare workers fear the reality of the
present and uncertainty of the future. It is evident that ORL, oral,
maxillo-facial and head and neck surgeons are at significant risk of
exposure. While all protective measures must be taken and guidance
adhered to consciously at all times, maintaining a well-balanced
physical and mental health is of paramount importance to function with
optimal clarity.
This paper will focus on consolidating the pre-existing self-care tips
and mental health resources, summarise webinars and teleconference
proceedings from hard hit areas, and discussions with experts in the
field, which will serve as a resource to mitigate the short and
long-term psychological effects of the current pandemic.