Name
#232 - Social Connection improves workplace well-being: Utilization of a Mentoring Framework to Improve Connectedness in PHS Officers
Date & Time
Tuesday, February 13, 2024, 12:00 PM
Description

Officers are often impacted by various unavoidable stressful situations that often result in the need for the advice of a seasoned officer to navigate through their situation. Dinner with a Captain Mentoring Advisory Group (DWCMAG) is a USPHS chartered group with a mission to provide a cross-category pathway for comprehensive mentorship opportunities and promote Esprit de Corps within the USPHS Commissioned Corps. DWCMAG pairs small groups of officers to meet and interact with a senior officer (O-6 or higher) in an informal dinner setting to network and obtain career guidance. DWCMAG participation includes both virtual and in-person dinners. Per attendees' surveys, the virtual dinners' quality is comparable to in-person dinners. While new and familiar strenuous obligations reduced morale and officer engagement, officers reported that participating in DWCMAG activities enhanced their confidence. Strengthening the satisfaction and engagement of PHS officers through adequate mental health resources is one of the top priorities of the Office of the Surgeon General and Health and Human Service agencies. DWCMAG has impacted over 1400 officers and received overwhelmingly positive survey responses from participants and several Flag Officers. The Captains hosting the dinners reported that they also learned from these experiences and enjoyed reconnecting with junior officers. The junior officers expressed an appreciation for the opportunity to have direct access to senior leadership willing to address current and future topics contributing to the advancement of the health and safety of our nation. After attending DWCMAG activities, junior officers were motivated and uplifted. As a result, >45% planned to lead or engage in an outreach program, and >50% were inspired to seek or expand collateral duties at their agency or via PHS initiatives. The outcomes demonstrate that DWCMAG activities provided access to professional development and promoted officer engagement across the United States. DWCMAG fosters a mental health balance for senior and junior officers by providing a platform for officers to engage meaningfully. These connections lead to a higher level of engagement and reduce feelings of isolation.

Location Name
Prince Georges Exhibit Hall A/B
Content Presented on Behalf of
USPHS/USSG/HHS
Learning Outcomes
1.Identify how formal mentoring sessions can help officers combat burnout<br />
2.Identify how organizations can combat health worker burnout<br />
3.Identify five essentials to be utilized for mental health and well-being
Session Type
Posters