Summary
| What is known? |
| Studies from previous pandemics have shown adverse psychological impact on healthcare professionals (HCPs). |
| What is the question? |
| Has anxiety increased in HCPs in the UK during the COVID-19 pandemic? What are the specific causes and what support do HCPs want for their mental health and wellbeing? |
| What was found? |
| Perceived anxiety in HCPs has increased in the UK during the COVID-19 pandemic. Causes were wide ranging, but the main reasons were related to concerns about risk of exposure to SARS-CoV-2 and lack of PPE. A large proportion of HCPs felt there was inadequate support and identified what support they wanted. |
| What is the implication for practice now? |
| Strategic interventions to address the anxieties of HCPs are required as matter of urgency. A multi-faceted and collaborative local, regional and national approach is needed to address the breadth of support needs identified in this survey. |