Mental Health, Work Satisfaction and, Quality of Life Among Healthcare Professionals During the COVID-19 Pandemic in an Indonesian Sample

BACKGROUND: During the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare professionals (HCP) might experience mental health problems and work-related stress, which can lead to less satisfaction at work and decreased health and quality of life in the long period. This study aims to explore the role of mental health and workplace satisfaction on the quality of life in health professionals who are involved in handling the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: This study was a cross-sectional approach using purposive sampling techniques. The online survey was conducted from May through September 2020. A total of 200 respondents from the West Java province in Indonesia were included. Data on mental health, work satisfaction, and quality of life were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation coefficient, and multivariate regression analysis. Responses to open questions regarding concerns and strengths were analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS: An increased mental health symptom experienced by healthcare professionals was associated with decreased health status (β=−0.724, p=0.001) and self-perceived health (β=−0.59, p=0.001). Further, serving patients with COVID-19 (β=−0.133, p=0.024) was related to lower health status. Five themes emerged regarding concerns about being exposed to COVID-19, namely 1) fear of transmitting the virus, 2) the impact of COVID-19 on family life, 3) death and isolation, 4) personal safety, and 5) social stigma. Five themes emerged regarding the source of encouragement and strength, ie. 1) religiosity, 2) social support systems, 3) the moral responsibility of the profession, 4) following health and safety protocols, and 5) acceptance and positive attitudes towards the future. CONCLUSION: Mental health problems impacted the quality of life. Serving patients with COVID-19 could predict lower health status. HCPs’ concerns and sources of strength when exposed to COVID-19 are discussed. Our results give a better understanding of the factors that can decrease and improve HCPs’ quality of life, therefore can be used to design psychological interventions to lower HCP’s psychological problems and improving their quality of life.