A mixed-method exploration of mental toughness, perceived stress and quality of life in mental health workers

Introduction: Clinicians working in mental health services are at increased risk of stress at work. Previous work suggests that mental toughness is a protective mechanism for stress in other professions. This has not yet been examined in mental health workers. Aim/Question: To examine whether mental toughness predicts perceived stress and quality of life in mental health workers, to develop an understanding of the factors contributing to and techniques used to deal with stress in this population. Method: Sixty-two workers completed measures of mental toughness, perceived stress, quality of life and answered questions regarding their personal experience of stress at work. Results: Mental toughness was a predictor of stress (F( 7, 54) = 10.58, p <.001) and quality of life (F(6, 55) = 7.58, p <.001, F( 7, 54) = 7.15, p <.001 and F(7, 54) = 6.81, p <.001, for compassion satisfaction, burnout and secondary traumatic stress, respectively), with particular roles for the interpersonal confidence and control of life components. Qualitative analysis revealed sources of stress for health workers and a variety of stress management techniques to cope with workplace stress. The findings suggested that mental toughness develops in some but not all health workers due to the demands of their role. Discussion: The findings provide an insight into stress, quality of life and protective factors for stress in mental health workers and suggest that future research should consider mental toughness training in mental health workers. Implications for Practice: There is a need to increase the awareness of factors contributing to stress in mental health workers, such as a lack of resources and staff, and to promote organizational change to improve their professional quality of life. Future research should also explore the potential of mental toughness training in this population.