PANDEMIC PUSHES FRONTLINE WORKERS TO BRINK

Medical professionals continue to battle exhaustive mental pressure even after normal hours

As the United Kingdom grappled with the COVID-19 pandemic, Anne realized she was at her breaking point during one of her work shifts.

The pandemic has taken a toll on the 24-year-old nurse. Like many National Health Service frontline workers battling the crisis, the pressure has affected them physically and mentally. Due to the sensitivity of the matter, Anne has requested that her real name and workplace be kept confidential.

Anne had been working at the intensive care unit of a busy hospital in the east of London for more than a year when the first wave of the pandemic hit. Wards were transformed into ICUs to cater to COVID-19 patients. Some rooms that usually accommodate four patients each now have to provide for six.