Effect of The People Project on Well-being and Burnout in Mental Health and Addiction Services Staff

Introduction: Working in certain healthcare specialties such as mental health and addiction services have been shown to have a higher level of occupational stress and burnout when compared to other specialties because of the complexity of the patient population. Resiliency practices are a means to improve staff’s well-being and reduce stress and burnout.Method: A literature review was completed and showed that healthcare professionals who engage in regular resiliency practices that include mindfulness, positive self-talk, gratitude, meditation, and compassion have been shown to have long-term physical and mental health benefits as the ability to cope with stress and stressful situations improved. Gaps: Gaps in the literature identified a lack of studies among mental health technicians and social workers, addiction service counselors, licensed practical nurses, and health unit coordinators with only one article found. Additional gaps noted were lack of studies implementing resiliency practices in rural mental health and addiction services settings, and there were no published studies on the effects of The People Project.Recommendations for Practice: The People Project is a program that teaches resiliency practices. Mental health and addiction service staff may benefit from resiliency practices as these practices can decrease stress and burnout and improve well-being