Job satisfaction of mental healthcare workers in multidisciplinary teams

Abstract

Background

Various factors may influence job satisfaction for mental healthcare professionals. Identifying these factors can help identify strategies to strengthen job satisfaction.

Aims

To determine the current levels of job satisfaction for mental healthcare workers (MHCWs) in multidisciplinary teams, and to identify factors that impact this experience.

Methods

A sequential mixed methods study was used. Seventy seven MHCWs in regional Australia participated in an online survey. From this sample, 16 participants contributed to discipline-specific focus groups.

Results

The majority of participants (83%) were generally satisfied working in a mental healthcare role. A higher proportion reported a decrease in satisfaction in the past year than an increase. Differences between the four disciplines of MHCWs studied were evident. Commonalities were seen in professional recognition and direct client work.

Conclusions

Factors in the service delivery environment are having a negative impact in job satisfaction of MHCWs. Team dynamics and team leader qualities are important factors that support them in their work. Results from this study may be used to inform leadership education in mental health services. Individual discipline perspective can inform retention and recruitment strategies.

Keywords:

• Job satisfaction
• mental health
• mental healthcare
• workers
• professional
• provider
• workforce
• mental health nursing
• occupational therapy
• psychology
• social work
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health work

Acknowledgements

The contribution of participants of this study, and the facilitators of the focus groups and yarning circle is highly appreciated. Support from the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Leadership Advisory Council is also appreciated. Without their support, this study would not have been possible. Statistical support and guidance was provided by Dr Theophilus Emeto, with additional assistance provided by Dr Venkat Vangaveti.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by a scholarship awarded by the Services for Australian Rural and Remote Allied Health (SARRAH) towards completion of the study.