HomeDomestic NewsSurvey reveals high number of psychiatric workers considering quitting due to violence

Survey reveals high number of psychiatric workers considering quitting due to violence

A recent study from the labor union FOA reveals that a significant number of employees in psychiatry and specialized fields are considering leaving their jobs due to violence and threats. Out of the 400 members surveyed, who work in treatment and social psychiatry as well as in institutions for individuals with disabilities, residential facilities, and special schools, one in five are considering quitting their jobs. The survey also shows that four out of ten have experienced violence within the past year.

Tanja Nielsen, chairman of the Social and Health Sector in FOA, expresses deep concern about the numbers, which she describes as “frightening.” According to Nielsen, the situation is unsustainable and in many places there is a lack of adequate security for the staff. She points out that employees often do not have the necessary knowledge about the new clientele, who are often dually diagnosed and have substance abuse problems, which increases the risk of violent episodes.

Recent times have been marked by several violent incidents where patients have attacked staff. An example is an episode in June where a doctor was stabbed with a knife at the Psychiatric Center in Amager. According to Nielsen, lack of competence among the staff leads to a high use of temporary workers, which creates insecurity among both patients and employees.

To increase security, some places have started using metal detectors and body scanners. However, Tanja Nielsen believes that these measures are only temporary solutions. She calls for long-term and holistic solutions that create better coordination between social and treatment psychiatry and ensure optimal care and treatment for people with psychiatric disorders.

The survey was conducted between June 20 and July 2, 2024, and underscores the need for a deeper effort to improve working conditions in psychiatry.

Read the danish version here

Latest articles

Trump refuses to rule out use of military force to take Greenland

At a recent press conference, incoming U.S. President Donald Trump stated that he is...

Danish Minister Calls for Meeting on Proposed Parental Responsibility Law Changes

Social and Housing Minister Sophie Hæstorp Andersen has invited political parties in the Danish...

“Denmark announces new environmental initiatives to combat pollution and promote sustainability”

Please provide the Danish article you would like me to translate, and I'll be...

“Denmark Imposes Stricter Immigration Controls Amid Rising COVID-19 Concerns”

Please provide me with the Danish article you would like translated into English, and...

More News

Trump refuses to rule out use of military force to take Greenland

At a recent press conference, incoming U.S. President Donald Trump stated that he is...

Danish Minister Calls for Meeting on Proposed Parental Responsibility Law Changes

Social and Housing Minister Sophie Hæstorp Andersen has invited political parties in the Danish...

“Denmark announces new environmental initiatives to combat pollution and promote sustainability”

Please provide the Danish article you would like me to translate, and I'll be...