Support Group Helps Physicians Cope with Emotional Stress

As we know, those on the front line in health care can at times be presented with difficult situations, including an unintended patient outcome or exposure to a traumatic incident. These circumstances may result in emotional aftershock, mental stress and/or grief.

What you need to know

WeCare, our confidential, peer-to-peer support program, is designed to help team members and clinicians manage any negative emotional consequences they may experience as a result of the work they do.

The details

Built on the foundation of collaboration and compassion, the program's vision is to “support the holistic needs of team members and community-based clinicians throughout the Hackensack Meridian Health”. In addition, WeCare supports our journey to being a High-Reliability Organization (HRO) particularly by supporting the HRO Principle of Resiliency.

“Every day, our team members and clinicians are delivering the best possible care for our patients – and are doing so with unwavering compassion and commitment. This is no small feat. Just as we deeply care for our patients, it’s equally as important that we show support for those who are providing that care. The WeCare program allows us to give our caregivers the emotional first aid they need, when they need it, and to ensure we continue to provide a safe, supportive environment for our teams across Hackensack Meridian Health.” - Dr. Ramon Solhkhah, department chair of psychiatry, Hackensack Meridian Health Jersey Shore University Medical Center.

How to get support

If you have been involved in an unexpected event or outcome at work and are in need of support, please contact the WeCare team by calling 844-642-2665. Support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and is provided for anyone who works at – or is affiliated with – Hackensack Meridian Health. Once contacted, the WeCare team can offer a shoulder to lean on, provide guidance and offer necessary tools when you may not be feeling like yourself.