Lived Experiences of Psychological Stress and Coping Mechanisms Among Healthcare Workers in a Public Hospital Setting: A Qualitative Inquiry at Aurora Memorial Hospital

Authors

  • Shirley Anne San Miguel-Chavez Northeastern College Santiago City Philippines Author
  • Alberto M. Gonzales, PhD Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.64358/ty0j5877

Keywords:

Psychological stress, coping mechanisms, healthcare workers, occupational stress, public hospital, qualitative research, workplace resilience

Abstract

This qualitative phenomenological study explored the lived experiences of psychological stress and coping mechanisms among healthcare workers in a public hospital setting at Aurora Memorial Hospital. Specifically, the study examined the sources of workplace stress, emotional and psychological experiences, coping strategies, and perceived support systems among healthcare personnel. Data were gathered through semi-structured in-depth interviews with fifteen purposively selected healthcare workers composed of nurses, medical technologists, nursing attendants, and allied healthcare personnel. Thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke’s framework was utilized in analyzing the data. Findings revealed that healthcare workers experienced psychological stress associated with heavy workload, emotional exhaustion, staff shortages, exposure to critically ill patients, and workplace pressure in delivering continuous patient care. Participants also described emotional fatigue, anxiety, physical exhaustion, and work-life imbalance as common psychological experiences in hospital settings. Despite these challenges, healthcare workers demonstrated resilience through peer support, spirituality, family support, emotional regulation, and adaptive coping strategies. Participants further emphasized the importance of supportive leadership, mental health support systems, and positive workplace relationships in sustaining emotional well-being and professional functioning. The findings underscore the importance of psychosocial support programs, workplace wellness initiatives, and emotionally supportive organizational practices in promoting healthcare workers’ mental health and occupational resilience.

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Published

2026-03-31

Issue

Vol. 2 No. 1 (2026): International Journal of Education, Literacies and Curriculum Studies

Section

Articles