EDITOR’S NOTE: Physicians, providers and administrative staff who practice at Maui Health hospitals and clinics answer questions from the public in Healthwise Maui, which appears on Thursdays. Maui Health operates Maui Memorial Medical Center, Maui Memorial Medical Center Outpatient Clinic, Kula Hospital & Clinic and Lana’i Community Hospital and accepts all patients. To submit a question, go to the website at mauihealth.org/healthwise.

Q: Has workplace violence increased in healthcare settings and what is being done to protect healthcare professionals?

Renee Friend RN-BC, Behavioral Health Nurse Manager, Maui Health: Workplace violence in healthcare is a growing concern that affects not just staff but the overall quality of patient care. Multiple studies show violence in healthcare settings has increased since the COVID-19 pandemic, including everything from intimidation and verbal threats to physical assaults.

Hospitals, by nature, are high-stress environments. People come through our doors already dealing with pain, fear, and uncertainty. Add life’s everyday pressures–family responsibilities, financial worries, emotional strain–and it’s easy to see how tensions can rise. When expectations aren’t met exactly, that stress can sometimes lead to aggression. We see it in patients overwhelmed by pain or confusion, family members frustrated by long wait times, or individuals struggling with substance use or mental health crises.

Hospitals across the nation, including Maui Health, are actively working to support both staff and patients in decreasing instances of aggression and violence. This includes enhancing security measures and providing better training on de-escalation, non-physical intervention, and reporting procedures for workplace violence. Maui Health has also added new employee assistance programs like free 24/7 counseling and peer support groups to help staff who have experienced aggression or violence. The reality is, preventing workplace violence is a shared responsibility. It takes all of us–staff, patients, and the community–to create an environment grounded in respect and compassion.

So, what can you do to support our Maui County healthcare professionals? It starts with kindness. Clear, respectful communication goes a long way. If you’re feeling upset or like your needs aren’t being met, say something–but do it with patience. Our staff wants to help. And if you ever feel disrespected, speak up calmly so we can make things right. On the flip side, eliminating verbal or physical aggression is critical. We can’t provide great care in an unsafe space.

Maui Health’s Keep It Kind Pledge is another way you can show your support and be a part of creating a safer, more compassionate environment for healthcare staff and patients. Take a few minutes of your day to sign the pledge at www.mauihealth.org/pledge.

Let’s remember that behind every medical coat, scrub, and badge is a human being–a neighbor, a parent, a coach, maybe even the person who sings in your church choir. They are more than a uniform and deserve to feel safe at work.

Let’s all take a stand–for our healthcare workers, for our community, and for each other.

Q: What is mindfulness, and how can it boost mental health?

Chrissy Miller, RN, Employee Health and Wellness Manager, Maui Health: Mindfulness is the practice of paying attention and being fully present in the moment. People can practice mindfulness in various ways, including intentionally focusing on thoughts, emotions, or physical sensations without analyzing or judging them.

Although mindfulness has recently become a trending term in mental health and wellness, it is rooted in ancient practices and backed by research. Practicing mindfulness has been shown to reduce stress and improve emotional well-being. It can enhance focus and concentration and help manage symptoms of anxiety and depression. Studies have even demonstrated benefits for conditions such as chronic pain.

One way mindfulness supports mental health is by helping individuals recognize their stress triggers and reactions. It allows one to notice thoughts and emotions without becoming entangled in them. This can help create distance from stressors and redirect unhelpful patterns.

A significant aspect of mindfulness is that anyone can practice it. It is simple, free, and can be done at any time. Many people begin with mindful breathing. Try taking a few minutes each day to focus on your breath. Sit or stand quietly and pay attention to the sensations of inhaling and exhaling. If your mind wanders, gently bring your focus back to your breathing.

You can also try a practice called the body scan. This involves mentally scanning your body from head to toe, noticing any areas of tension, tightness, or other sensations you may experience.

Additionally, mindfulness can be incorporated into almost any daily activity. Enjoy eating, folding laundry, brushing your teeth, or showering. Pay attention to your senses–what you see, feel, hear, smell, and taste. Give each moment your full attention. Focusing on what you’re doing in the present can help interrupt patterns of worrying about the past or future.

In summary, mindfulness is a powerful and accessible tool for enhancing mental health. Give it a try!