Mental health and optometrists: coming out of the dark

28 October 2020
Autumn 2020
Public health Wellbeing

The COVID-19 pandemic means optometrists are facing extremely stressful situations. Kathy Oxtoby explores the range of services available in different settings to support mental welfare.

The pandemic has exacerbated feelings of isolation and lack of direction among optometrists, who are adjusting to a new routine of remote triaging either from the practice or from home, and seeing fewer routine patients, coupled with uncertainties about their current or future role. 

Some optometrists have also been redeployed, and NHS England warns these clinicians may be at increased personal, physical or mental health risk in a new working environment.

Sign in to continue

Forgotten password?
Register

Not already a member of the College?

Start enjoying the benefits of College membership today. Take a look at what the College can offer you and view our membership categories and rates.

benefits of membership

Related further reading

Healthcare reforms must include wider use of primary eye care, optical leaders urge UK government

The College of Optometrists and the Optical Fees Negotiating Committee (OFNC) call on the government to make a long-term commitment to primary eye care in its NHS 10-Year Health Plan as part of the shift from hospital to community.

AI and technology New models of care Policy Public health Workforce

Lack of funding threatens commissioning of urgent care eye services in England

The College of Optometrists calls for vital community minor and urgent eye care services to be universally commissioned in England

Public health Workforce England

Well-being and optometric practice

Optometrists talk to patients about eye health every day, and have an important role to play in health promotion and public health.

Public health Wellbeing