Staff at the Western Highlands Provincial Health Authority (WHPHA) were reminded that caring for themselves is the first step in caring for patients.
To mark the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) World Day for Safety and Health at Work on April 28, WHPHA’s Occupational Health and Safety, Environmental Health, and Mental Health teams conducted a five-day training program for staff.
The sessions focused on the theme, “Let’s ensure a healthy psychosocial working environment,” encouraging staff to prioritize their wellbeing alongside their professional duties. Environmental Health Officer Ms. Melissa Steven urged staff to remain alert to their surroundings and to take action when they identify risks. She explained that hazards are often subtle but can quickly escalate if ignored.
“When something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and raise it,” she said. “Reporting is not just about safeguarding yourself, it’s about protecting colleagues, patients, and the integrity of our workplace.”
Occupational Health and Safety Officer Mr. Samuel Masakai reminded participants that neglecting personal wellbeing can have serious consequences, particularly in healthcare settings where staff are constantly exposed to pressure and emotionally demanding situations.
“If you notice a colleague who is persistently tired, losing motivation, or absent more often, these are warning signs that should not be ignored,” Mr. Masakai said. He emphasized that unresolved stress can lead to burnout, depression, and emotional exhaustion, affecting both work performance and family life. He encouraged staff to support one another, share responsibilities where possible, and recognize each other’s efforts, noting that a positive workplace improves morale and patient care.
Facilitators also stressed that poor work performance and stress should not automatically be treated as the same issue. While stress and burnout may contribute to reduced productivity, repeated poor performance must still be clearly identified, assessed, and appropriately managed. Staff were encouraged to support colleagues experiencing stress while maintaining professional accountability and workplace standards.
Mental Health Nurse Mr. Gabriel Ennis also called on staff to treat each other with respect and to speak up when support is needed. He stressed that in healthcare settings, where stress and emotional strain are common, fostering respect and mutual support is essential.
“A healthy workplace is everyone’s responsibility because mental health is equally important as physical health,” he said.
At the conclusion of the training, staff expressed gratitude to the facilitators for reviving the program after many years.
Participants described the sessions as motivational and practical, helping them better balance professional responsibilities with personal wellbeing.
Many staff also recommended that similar trainings be conducted regularly, acknowledging that in the demands of daily work, healthcare workers often overlook their own health.
The training aimed to strengthen a workplace culture where the health and wellbeing of WHPHA staff are recognized as the foundation of quality healthcare services.
