Abstract

This paper delves into the mental well-being of mothers employed in public healthcare in the Davao Region, Philippines, against the backdrop of existing policies aimed at supporting their mental health. Despite legislative measures, incongruences in policy implementation persist, potentially contributing to stress and burnout among healthcare workers. The study seeks to address this gap by gathering baseline data in local settings to inform targeted policy amendments. The primary objectives are to assess the perceived stress level, burnout level, and adaptive coping strategies of mothers working in public healthcare.

Using a quantitative approach, 34 mothers aged 18 to 60, currently employed in public hospitals in Davao del Norte, Davao de Oro, and Davao Oriental, participated in a 2-week survey. Findings reveal a moderate stress level, with no significant differences based on demographic variables. Burnout scores indicate moderate emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and high personal accomplishment. Problem-focused coping strategies are predominantly employed, with sleep duration influencing coping strategies significantly. Notably, a significant positive correlation between burnout and stress, and a significant negative correlation between burnout and coping were observed. Stress and adaptive coping emerged as significant predictors of burnout, collectively explaining a substantial amount of variance. These results underscore the importance of tailored interventions and policy adjustments to enhance the mental well-being of mothers in public healthcare in the Davao Region.