Stress help for health workers

The OHSS wants to stop doctors diagnosing themselves

Staff working in the health profession in County Durham are to get help dealing with the stresses and strains of life in the NHS.

A new Occupational Health and Safety Service (OHSS) scheme has been set up for doctors and dentists across the county.

It is designed to help staff cope with problems such as stress and depression.

At present many workers feel uncomfortable about approaching a fellow health professional in their own workplace.

Independence important

But according to Occupational Health Specialist Sarah Davison, the new service will give them confidential support.

The nurse, who has been working in occupational health for eight years, said: "It is trying to get away from self-diagnosing, and the self-medication side.

"Independence is a key part of our service.

"We are "one-step-removed" so we can help the employer and employee at the same time."