The Hidden Struggles: Healthcare Workers' Experiences and Support Needs During COVID-19

Since the COVID-19 pandemic hit, healthcare workers have been on the frontlines, dealing with a lot of stress both at work and in their personal lives. While many studies have looked at the numbers and statistics, they haven't really captured what these workers are going through. This review dives deep into the stories of healthcare workers to understand their challenges and how well they feel supported. The pandemic has changed the game for healthcare professionals. They've had to deal with long hours, tough decisions, and the constant risk of getting sick. But it's not just the job that's been hard; their personal lives have also taken a hit. Balancing work and home life has become almost impossible for many.What's even more surprising is that, despite all this, healthcare workers haven't always felt supported. Some feel that their employers and the public don't fully understand what they're going through. They want more than just words of thanks; they need practical support like better working conditions and mental health resources. Many healthcare workers also feel that the support they receive isn't always what they need. For instance, some might get extra pay, but what they really want is more time off to rest and recharge. Others might get access to counselling, but what they really need is a better work-life balance. It's clear that there's a disconnect between what healthcare workers are experiencing and what they're getting in terms of support. This review aims to shed light on this gap, hoping that it will lead to better support for these essential workers.