Community health workers (CHWs) in low- and middle-income countries faced significant mental health challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, including depression, anxiety, burnout, and stress. These issues were driven by heavy workloads, financial struggles, and poor workplace conditions. CHWs coped using humor, family support, denial, and sometimes substance use, while also … [Read more...] about Burnout and mental distress among community health workers in low- and middle-income countries: a scoping review of studies during the COVID-19 pandemic
CHW Support
Perceptions around occupational mental well-being of community health workers and an intervention package for its promotion: A mixed-methods study in rural Chiapas, Mexico
Community health workers (CHWs) in rural Mexico face mental health challenges due to difficult working conditions. In response, an NGO introduced a program in 2021 to support CHW mental well-being. A study involving 52 CHWs found their sense of community impact and peer connections boosted well-being, while work-life balance and uneven access to interventions posed challenges. … [Read more...] about Perceptions around occupational mental well-being of community health workers and an intervention package for its promotion: A mixed-methods study in rural Chiapas, Mexico
“We are their eyes and ears here on the ground, yet they do not appreciate us”-Factors influencing the performance of Kenyan community health volunteers working in urban informal settlements
This study investigates the challenges faced by Community Health Volunteers (CHVs) in Nairobi's informal settlements and suggests ways to support them. It found that factors like recruitment, training, resources, and relationships with healthcare facilities affect CHV performance. Addressing these challenges requires adequate remuneration, comprehensive training, supportive … [Read more...] about “We are their eyes and ears here on the ground, yet they do not appreciate us”-Factors influencing the performance of Kenyan community health volunteers working in urban informal settlements
Identification, mapping, and self-reported practice patterns of village doctors in Sitakunda subdistrict, Bangladesh
Village doctors in rural Bangladesh are important in providing healthcare, but they often lack proper training, especially in using antibiotics. This study looked at 411 village doctors in the Sitakunda area, mapping their locations and studying their practices. Most doctors were men with about 15 years of experience, and they saw around 84 patients per week, often prescribing … [Read more...] about Identification, mapping, and self-reported practice patterns of village doctors in Sitakunda subdistrict, Bangladesh
The Role of State and Territorial Health Agencies in Supporting and Hiring Community Health Workers
As communities in the U.S. face barriers to accessing healthcare—like distance, limited medical staff, and social challenges—community health workers (CHWs) are vital. They build trust, help clients navigate services, and empower communities to advocate for themselves. With healthcare access shrinking, public health agencies should partner with CHWs, who have a strong track … [Read more...] about The Role of State and Territorial Health Agencies in Supporting and Hiring Community Health Workers