Coronavirus: Survey shows a third of NI doctors suffering higher stress levels

They felt they were suffering from depression, anxiety, stress, burnout or emotional distress relating to work, a survey for the representative organisation added.

Members also reported feeling a greater sense of team working and less burdensome bureaucracy.

About a third (32%) also reported they had accessed wellbeing support services from either their employer or a third party.

Dr Tom Black, chair of BMA’s Northern Ireland Council, said: “The commitment shown by doctors over the last few months cannot be underestimated.

“As well as dealing with a rapidly changing work environment, and a completely new disease where there was limited clinical information available, they were along with everyone else dealing with home-schooling, family, parents and the general shock at living through a global pandemic.”

Just over 33% of those surveyed also said they had to find alternative childcare during this time and Dr Black said that added considerably to many doctors’ stress levels.

He added: “Worryingly, a small number also said they were unable to work or had to reduce their hours due to childcare concerns.

“We would be keen to see appropriate provision made for the summer where access to normal summer camps may not be available.”

In responses to the survey, doctors said they had concerns both around their experience in work and fear of contracting Covid-19 as well as fears for their family and dealing with the stress of home life.

One said: “I feel I have aged over the past three months, with variable levels of anxiety and stress.”