Kebede, Wassie (PHD)Selamu, Medhin2018-06-202023-11-042018-06-202023-11-042011-07http://etd.aau.edu.et/handle/123456789/2058Ethiopia’s health professional to population ratio or the number of clients that one health professional is supposed to serve, is much lower than the World Health Organization (WHO) standards which could be an indicator of work overload in the sector. Though there are many health issues in Ethiopia socio-emotional condition of health professionals should be one of the important issues. Health professionals’ exposure to the stressful situations is an occupational hazard that can harm both the professional and the community. The main objective of this research was to explore the perception and experience of health professionals related to their emotional needs and the strategies they use to address such needs. Qualitative approach particularly case study design was used in this study. The tools for primary data collection were in-depth interview and focus group discussion in order to gain in-depth information. Fifteen health professionals who are currently working in TASH are involved in the study. Data was analysed by cross-case analysis technique, to create a meaning from qualitatively generated data. The findings of this study confirmed that health professionals are facing serious job related stresses that lead to various socioemotional challenges. These are job dissatisfaction, frustration and plan to change their work place. In addition some of the professionals have developed signs of burnout which is serious problem for their practice. The result of the study has an indication for social work intervention in the health care institutions. The implications aim at promotion of health professionals’ wellbeing through provision of socio-emotional supportenCoping Mechanisms; Health Professionals; Job Related Stress; Socio-emotional SupportThesis