Moral Injury: Ramifications of COVID-19

During the COVID-19 pandemic, there will be many who have to make significantly harsh decisions: Family members who will decide to refrain from seeing elderly loved ones, even in their final days. Law enforcement who will issue summons to small business owners desperate for work but in violation of stay-at-home orders. Health care workers who, daily, choose between their professional oaths and risking their own health and that of their families.

Guilt can be productive, reinforcing our connection to what is important to us, and guiding our future behavior to be more aligned with our priorities. A decade ago, psychologists working with war veterans identified a profound guilt that was maladaptive and compromised quality of life, self-worth, relationships, and even job performance. They referred to this experience as moral injury and found that it was associated with engaging–or failing to engage–in behaviors that align with our deeply held beliefs when we are in extremely adverse circumstances.

This webinar looks at these and other possible manifestations of moral injury that can arise as a result of this unprecedented time. It also discusses the ways in which we can work to prevent moral injuries from occurring or intervene when they do, supporting healing.