Emphasizing the importance of psychological experiences in professional roles, this study explored the relationship between self-compassion and professional quality of life (ProQOL) among healthcare workers (HCWs). Sociodemographic characteristics, depressive symptoms, self-compassion, and ProQOL were assessed by conducting an online survey with 371 HCWs on coronavirus disease 2019 dedicated teams. Our findings indicate that self-compassion contributes to a better ProQOL, enhancing compassion satisfaction while reducing burnout and secondary traumatic stress, even when controlling depressive symptoms. These results have important implications fostering self-compassion interventions for a better ProQOL in HCWs.
Keywords: Depressive Symptoms; Healthcare Workers; Professional Quality of Life; Self-Compassion.
© 2025 The Korean Academy of Medical Sciences.