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Personal therapy as part of self-care among mental health professionals in Singapore : an exploratory study
Author
Teo, Leng Leng
Supervisor
Lee, Boon Ooi
Abstract
In view of the increasing attention paid to mental healthcare in the nation, this study addresses the self-care patterns of mental health professionals (MHP) in Singapore. It also sheds light on the types of personal and work stressors that this population faces. A major focus is directed towards the utilisation of personal therapy, which is known as a popular self-care option by more than 75% of MHP in previous studies conducted in USA and Europe. In the present study, a survey was conducted with a convenient sample of 206 MHP, including counsellors, psychologists, social workers and psychiatrists. Results show that the most common work stressors were difficult clients, uncertainty about best intervention and too much paperwork; and the most frequent self-care options were spending time with loved ones, engaging in religious activities, and reading or engaging in a hobby. Among all the MHP surveyed, 73 (35.4%) had sought personal therapy, mostly to address marital or relational issues, divorce and their children’s problems. MHP with previous experience in personal therapy had more positive attitude towards entering therapy and less self-stigma, than MPH without previous experience. Furthermore, MHP with psychodynamic orientation utilised personal therapy more than practitioners of other theoretical persuasions. However, in terms of gender, age, and concern with face-loss, there was no difference between the group that had utilised personal therapy and the group that had not. Implications for individual and institutional efforts towards self-care and personal therapy are discussed.
Date Issued
2012
Call Number
RC451.S55 Teo
Date Submitted
2012