Impact of compassionate leadership on work-related stress: a study among psychiatry professionals at a hospital in Malta.

Abstract

Purpose: Work-related stress significantly impacts mental healthcare professionals' well-being, team effectiveness and job performance. This study aims to explore how more compassionate leadership may help reduce work-related stress within a psychiatric hospital in the Mediterranean island of Malta.

Design/methodology/approach: Six psychiatry professionals (registered or in-training psychiatrists) were recruited and separately interviewed about their experiences, challenges and views on compassionate leadership in their place of work. The interviews were digitally recorded, transcribed verbatim and analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Findings: The findings revealed significant obstacles to a supportive work environment, including widespread apathy and resistance to change. Participants also showed limited awareness of existing support systems, pointing to issues with resource allocation and staffing. Key stressors identified were poor team dynamics, inadequate communication and resource scarcity. To address these, professionals stressed the need for resilience training, improved supervision and external psychological support.

Originality/value: This study concludes that a more compassionate leadership can lessen work-related stress, cultivate a positive workplace and drive systemic change. Practical recommendations include better promotion of support services, tailored mentoring and initiatives to destigmatize seeking help. This research adds to the evidence supporting compassionate leadership in healthcare, offering insights for better leadership strategies.