{Reference Type}: Journal Article
{Title}: 'Do I cry or just carry on?' A story completion study of healthcare professionals' anticipated responses to experiencing chest pain.
{Author}: Vries C;Flurey CA;
{Journal}: J Health Psychol
{Volume}: 29
{Issue}: 10
{Year}: 2024 Sep 28
{Factor}: 3.789
{DOI}: 10.1177/13591053231221400
{Abstract}: Healthcare professionals may experience barriers to seeking healthcare that differ from the general population. We explored healthcare professionals' anticipated responses to experiencing chest pain following a period of stress using qualitative story completion method with healthcare professionals (n = 44). Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis, which identified three themes: '"Do I cry or just carry on?": A Culture of Suffering in Silence' identified worries that expressing health concerns would be perceived as weakness, with potential impact on career opportunities. Participants also described self-diagnosis and self-medication rather than help-seeking. '"Me? Have a panic attack?": Psychosomatic Shame' suggested mental health issues may be ignored due to stigma. '"We definitely don't take care of ourselves": Prioritising Pressures of Multiple Responsibilities over Self-care' identified real or perceived pressures to de-prioritise their health. Future research should explore the design of confidential, time efficient support for healthcare professionals that tackle cultural norms and barriers to self-care.