The psychological toll for academic staff of COVID-19
This article offers a synthesis of a research report of McMaster University on the psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on academic staff. The findings revealed significant mental health challenges, including increased anxiety, depression, and thoughts of death among respondents. The pandemic exacerbated existing issues such as heavy workloads, digital stress, and the need to balance professional and domestic responsibilities. The study highlighted the disproportionate impact on early career researchers, parents, women, 2SLGBTQ+ individuals, those with disabilities, and BIPOC populations. Academic staff associations are advocating for better mental health support and systemic changes to address these challenges.