Top workplace safety tips for mental health professionals

Workplace violence in Hhealthcare: Protecting mental health professionals

Healthcare and mental health professionals work in complex, emotionally demanding environments. While their role is centred on care and support, the reality for many is ongoing exposure to occupational violence and aggression—often without adequate protection. Workplace violence in healthcare is not isolated or rare. It is widespread, under‑reported, and increasingly recognised as a serious workforce and safety issue.

The scale of workplace violence in healthcare

Healthcare and social assistance workers experience the highest rates of occupational violence of any industry in Australia. National estimates indicate that up to 95% of healthcare workers will experience verbal or physical violence at some point during their careers. This risk extends across hospitals, community health services, aged care, disability services and private practices.

Mental health clinicians face particular exposure. Research suggests that 35–40% of psychologists in clinical practice will experience some form of patient‑initiated assault during their working lives. Since the COVID‑19 pandemic, the frequency and severity of incidents has increased, particularly in settings managing complex trauma, crisis presentations and behavioural distress.

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The psychological impact on health workers

Most incidents do not result in serious physical injury. However, the emotional and psychological consequences are often long‑lasting.

Australian workforce data shows that health professionals experience:

• Elevated levels of anxiety and depression
• Higher rates of psychological distress
• Increased risk of burnout and workforce exit

Exposure to aggression, combined with high workloads and emotional labour, significantly affects clinician wellbeing, retention and confidence in practice.

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Common workplace risk factors in clinical settings

Certain conditions consistently increase the likelihood of violence or aggression in healthcare environments:

• Heavy workloads and long working hours
• Bullying and workplace harassment
• Occupational violence or threats
• High‑stress, emotionally charged environments
• Regular exposure to client trauma or crisis

These factors highlight the need for preventive safety strategies, not just reactive responses.

10 Top tips for practical safety strategies

Effective safety planning is not about fear. It is about clarity, preparation and control of the clinical environment. The following measures are commonly recommended across healthcare and mental health settings.

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1. Screen new clients before face‑to‑face appointments

An initial telehealth or phone consultation can provide valuable insight into a client’s emotional state and potential risk factors.
If concerns arise, trust your professional judgement and consider telehealth‑only care.

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2. Secure entry and waiting areas

• Keep doors locked unless a client has a scheduled appointment
• Notify clients when it is time to enter
• Use video doorbells or entry cameras to observe behaviour before allowing access

These measures support early risk assessment without confrontation.

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3. Establish and practise an evacuation plan

A clear, rehearsed response plan reduces hesitation and confusion if a situation escalates. Even simple protocols can significantly improve staff confidence and safety.

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4. Limit client belongings in consultation rooms

Ask clients to leave large bags or unnecessary items in their car or at reception to reduce risk and maintain clear space.

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5. Position furniture with exit access in mind

Arrange seating and furniture so you have an unobstructed path to the exit at all times.

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6. Enable colleague check‑ins

Colleagues should feel comfortable knocking or entering a session if escalation is heard or suspected. A second presence can help to defuse tension.

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7. Remove potential weapons from reach

Keep sharp or heavy objects that can be used as a weapon out of consultation spaces. These can include scissors, heavy vases or decorative objects.

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8. Use a neutral exit strategy if needed

If safety concerns begin to surface, leave the room calmly and without explanation, seeking immediate support.

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9. Avoid working alone where possible

Working alone increases risk, particularly outside normal business hours. When solo practice is unavoidable, ensure:

• Someone knows your schedule
• Your location is known
• Support can be contacted quickly if needed

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9. Use a duress alarm for added safety

Duress alarms let you discreetly request help if a situation becomes unsafe, without escalating the interaction. Keep the alarm in an easy‑to‑reach place so you can activate it quickly. Monitored duress alarms connect directly to a monitored response service, enabling prompt support and coordination with managers or emergency services if needed.

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How does a MePACS Duress Alarm work

The MePACS duress alarm activates with a single button press, sending a discreet alert to our professional 24/7 monitoring team. Trained operators respond quickly, assess the situation, and take appropriate action—whether that means contacting your manager or engaging emergency services. If you’re unable to speak, responders can still hear through the device and act immediately to get you help.

The alarm includes built‑in GPS, allowing us to identify your real‑time location as soon as the alert is activated. For people working in the community, you can also check in before entering an apartment block or a client’s home, so we know exactly where you are.

Most importantly, the alarm gives you confidence to focus on your work, knowing support is ready if circumstances change.

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Sarah , an Allied Health worker, needed to press her MePACS duress alarm when a client quickly became agitated:

"When I pressed my MePACS alarm, it de-escalated the situation and the patient ran out of the building, then I locked the door to keep myself safe. Having pressed my MePACS alarm, it gave me reassurance to know that I could come back into work the next day."

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Learn more about the MePACS Duress Alarm Take the next step to support your healthcare team with a practical safety solution. Learn more →