INTRODUCTION
Surgical training hones one to be tough, yet calm especially during stressful periods. During these unprecedented times, all clinicians are susceptible to mental stress. Measures should be taken, both at an organisational and at a personal level to provide service while minimising risks to all healthcare professionals.
Irrespective of specialty, healthcare workers fear the reality of the present and uncertainty of the future. It is evident that ORL, oral, maxillo-facial and head and neck surgeons are at significant risk of exposure. While all protective measures must be taken and guidance adhered to consciously at all times, maintaining a well-balanced physical and mental health is of paramount importance to function with optimal clarity.
This paper will focus on consolidating the pre-existing self-care tips and mental health resources, summarise webinars and teleconference proceedings from hard hit areas, and discussions with experts in the field, which will serve as a resource to mitigate the short and long-term psychological effects of the current pandemic.