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. 2021 Apr;31(4):1887-1890.
doi: 10.1007/s11695-020-05083-1. Epub 2020 Nov 2.

Emotional Resilience and Bariatric Surgical Teams: a Priority in the Pandemic

Yitka Graham  1   2   3 , Kamal Mahawar  4   5 , Manel Riera  6 , Omar Islam  5 , Aparna Ghovil Bhasker  7 , Michael Wilson  8 , Abd Tahrani  9   10   11 , Violeta Moize  12 , Angela Leal  13 , Catherine Hayes  4
Affiliations

Emotional Resilience and Bariatric Surgical Teams: a Priority in the Pandemic

Yitka Graham et al. Obes Surg. 2021 Apr.

Abstract

The infection control measures implemented as a result of COVID-19 led to a postponement of bariatric surgical procedures across many countries worldwide. Many bariatric surgical teams were in essence left without a profession, with many redeployed to other areas of clinical care and were not able to provide the levels of patient support given before COVID-19. As the pandemic continues, some restrictions have been lifted, with staff adjusting to new ways of working, incorporating challenging working conditions and dealing with continuing levels of stress. This article explores the concept of emotional labour, defined as 'inducing or suppressing feelings in order to perform one's work', and its application to multidisciplinary teams working within bariatric surgery, to offer insight into the mental health issues that may be affecting healthcare professionals working in this discipline.

Keywords: Bariatric surgery; Compassion fatigue; Emotional labour; Mental health; Resilience.

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Conflict of interest statement

Yitka Graham is a reviewer for Obesity Surgery. Kamal Mahawar is on the Editorial Board of Obesity Surgery. Omar Islam, Aparna Ghovil Bhasker, Michael Wilson, Abd Tahrani, Violeta Moize, Angela Leal and Catherine Hayes have no conflicts of interest.

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