The response from physicians and staff has been overwhelmingly positive. Trained as caregivers, it can be difficult for workers in a medical setting to acknowledge their need for emotional wellness support. The initiative is allowing us to build a culture and environment where nurses, physicians, and employees across our organization can “be human” — where they feel comfortable asking for help.
Princeton Health employees have access to a clinical psychologist and support team, a peer-to-peer nurses support program, and can participate in Schwartz Center rounds (which offers employees space to discuss social and emotional issues that arise in caring for patients). Well-being bulletin boards are on display, and newsletters and other resource materials are available, promoting self-care and serving as a way for the staff to connect. Additionally, contact information for services and support is located in private spaces throughout the hospital for those who prefer anonymity.
We are grateful to the corporate and community partners who have supported the Well-Being Initiative. Leading gifts have come from Bristol-Myers Squibb; Janssen Pharmaceuticals; Novo Nordisk, Inc.; and Christine Grant and Michael Halpern, via the Halpern Family Foundation.