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Giorgianni CM, Martino G, Brunetto S, Buta F, Lund-Jacobsen T, Tonacci A, Gangemi S, Ricciardi L. Allergic Sensitization and Psychosomatic Involvement in Outdoor and Indoor Workers: A Preliminary and Explorative Survey of Motorway Toll Collectors and Office Employees. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:1429. [PMID: 39057572 PMCID: PMC11276685 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12141429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2024] [Revised: 07/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The incidence of respiratory and cutaneous allergic disorders may be variable if we consider work activity. These disorders are reported in the current literature to have a relevant psychosomatic involvement. The aim of the study was to submit a survey on the self-reported occurrence of allergic respiratory and cutaneous diseases in outdoor and indoor workers to verify the onset or exacerbations of such pathologies, encourage surveillance, and suggest the need for further studies. Two groups of workers were compared when exposed and not exposed to air pollutants. An outdoor population of motorway toll collectors (153 workers; M: 58.03 years old, SD: 6.1; and female prevalence of 66.01%) and an indoor group of office employees (59 workers; mean age 54.44 years, SD: 8.50; and male prevalence of 61.02%) entered the study. The results of three multivariate analyses of the obtained data, investigating contributions of external factors, including age, sex, smoking habits, working type, and seniority, on allergic conditions were significant in both workers' groups. The findings highlighted that age and smoking habits were significant contributors to allergic conditions, both independently and in combination with other factors, such as sex and working type. The data suggest the presence of phenomena related to different etiological domains, as already reported in the literature. Through the collection of these data, it was possible to highlight the need to analyze clinical signs from different perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Concetto Mario Giorgianni
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Dental, Morphological and Functional Investigations, University of Messina, 98124 Messina, Italy;
| | - Gabriella Martino
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98124 Messina, Italy; (G.M.); (S.B.); (F.B.); (S.G.)
| | - Silvia Brunetto
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98124 Messina, Italy; (G.M.); (S.B.); (F.B.); (S.G.)
- School and Operative Unit of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of Messina, 98124 Messina, Italy
| | - Federica Buta
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98124 Messina, Italy; (G.M.); (S.B.); (F.B.); (S.G.)
- School and Operative Unit of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of Messina, 98124 Messina, Italy
| | - Trine Lund-Jacobsen
- Department of Endocrinology, Centre for Cancer and Organ Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark;
| | - Alessandro Tonacci
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Research Council of Italy (IFC-CNR), Via G. Moruzzi 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Sebastiano Gangemi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98124 Messina, Italy; (G.M.); (S.B.); (F.B.); (S.G.)
- School and Operative Unit of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of Messina, 98124 Messina, Italy
| | - Luisa Ricciardi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98124 Messina, Italy; (G.M.); (S.B.); (F.B.); (S.G.)
- School and Operative Unit of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of Messina, 98124 Messina, Italy
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Melzner L, Kröger C. [Incapacity to work due to mental disorders-economic, individual, and treatment-specific aspects]. Bundesgesundheitsblatt Gesundheitsforschung Gesundheitsschutz 2024; 67:751-759. [PMID: 38789543 PMCID: PMC11230963 DOI: 10.1007/s00103-024-03894-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
The changes in the modern work environment are accompanied by specific stressors that can have a negative impact on employees' mental health. In line with this, the proportion of sick-leave days due to mental disorders has recently risen to 17.7% compared to 10.9% in 2007, which in 2021 was associated with costs of 42.9 billion euros due to losses of gross value and productivity.Based on current health economic studies, this review provides an overview of the economic impact of incapacity to work and early retirement due to various mental disorders in Germany. In absolute figures, expenditure on incapacity to work is particularly high for common mental illnesses such as affective and anxiety disorders. Rarer mental disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder and eating disorders cause high costs in relation to their low prevalence, particularly due to sickness benefit payments.In addition to these economic implications, the consequences of incapacity to work, early retirement, and unemployment are examined at an individual level and explanatory approaches for the specific psychosocial stresses are presented. The latter highlights the need for scientifically substantiated treatment methods. Certified treatments have proven to be efficient in reducing the number of sick-leave days, particularly for common mental disorders. This applies even more to workplace-related interventions, which appear to be superior to conventional methods in this respect. Workplace-based therapies incorporate work-related models and focus on the planning of reintegration into the workplace. Further naturalistic studies are needed to test the transferability of the effectiveness of these treatments to other disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lena Melzner
- Institut für Psychologie, Abteilung für Klinische Psychologie und Psychotherapie, Universität Hildesheim, Universitätsplatz 1, 31141, Hildesheim, Deutschland.
| | - Christoph Kröger
- Institut für Psychologie, Abteilung für Klinische Psychologie und Psychotherapie, Universität Hildesheim, Universitätsplatz 1, 31141, Hildesheim, Deutschland
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Desai K, O’Malley P, Van Culin E. Impact of heartfulness meditation practice compared to the gratitude practices on wellbeing and work engagement among healthcare professionals: Randomized trial. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0304093. [PMID: 38848338 PMCID: PMC11161083 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0304093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate whether Heartfulness meditation practice, compared to Gratitude practice, leads to measurable changes in mental wellbeing among healthcare providers across the US. METHOD Participants were randomly assigned to one of the following 6-week interventions: the trainer-guided virtual Heartfulness meditation program or the podcast-based self-guided gratitude practice group. The Professional Quality of Life Scale-5 (ProQOL-5) was used to determine Compassion Satisfaction (CS) and risk for Burnout (BO) and secondary traumatic stress (STS). The Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES) was used to assess vigor, dedication, and absorption at work. Outcomes were collected at baseline and the end of the study period. Qualitative questions regarding the experience of learning and practicing were also offered at the end of the six weeks. RESULTS The majority of participants were nurses (50%), followed by allied healthcare professionals (37%) and physicians (13%) (N = 83). There was a general trend towards increases in CS in the Heartfulness group compared to the gratitude group. However, this was not statistically significant. Strong evidence suggests there was a significant improvement in BO for the Heartfulness group between Week 0 and Week 6 (p = 0.002), as well as STS (p = 0.0004) and vigor (p = 0.0392). Qualitative data analysis revealed that the subjects in the Heartfulness arm reported improved sleep and decreased reactivity to stress. Subjects in the gratitude arm reported improved mood and favorable results using gratitude practices at home with family members. CONCLUSION In our study, Heartfulness meditation practice was associated with a significant improvement in burnout and vigor at work, with a trend towards compassion satisfaction after six weeks compared with gratitude practices. Qualitative analysis indicates the benefits of both Heartfulness and Gratitude practices. Further randomized trials with a larger sample size are needed to explore these science-based practices for the wellbeing of healthcare workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunal Desai
- Department of Internal Medicine, Boonshoft School of Medicine, Wright State University, Dayton, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Patricia O’Malley
- Nurse Scientist- Premier Health Nursing Research, Miami Valley Hospital, Dayton, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Emily Van Culin
- Premier Health Learning Institute, Dayton, Ohio, United States of America
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Wijkander M, Svedberg P, Narusyte J, Alaie I, Lindfors P, Xu T, Magnusson Hanson LL. The role of familial factors and neuroticism in the association between exposure to offensive behaviors at work and long-term sickness absence due to common mental disorders - a prospective twin study. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1473. [PMID: 38824499 PMCID: PMC11143713 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-19000-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to investigate associations between exposure to work-related violence/threats and harassment, and future sickness absence (SA) due to common mental disorders (CMDs), taking familial factors (shared genetics and early-life environment) and neuroticism into account. METHODS The study sample included 8795 twin individuals from the Swedish Twin Project of Disability Pension and Sickness Absence (STODS), including survey data from the Study of Twin Adults: Genes and Environment (STAGE). Self-reported work-related violence and/or threats as well as work-related harassment (including bullying) and national register data on SA due to CMDs were analyzed using standard logistic regression, and conditional logistic regression among complete twin pairs discordant on exposures. Individuals were followed for a maximum of 13 years. Interactions between neuroticism and exposures were assessed using both multiplicative and additive interaction analyses. RESULTS Exposure to work-related violence/threats was associated with higher odds of SA due to CMDs when adjusting for age, sex, marital status, children, education, type of living area, work characteristics, and symptoms of depression and burnout (OR 2.11, 95% CI 1.52-2.95). Higher odds of SA due to CMDs were also found for exposure to harassment (OR 1.52, 95% CI 1.10-2.11) and a combined indicator of exposure to violence/threats and/or harassment (OR 1.98, 95% CI 1.52-2.59), compared with the unexposed. Analyses of twins discordant on exposure, using the unexposed co-twin as reference, showed reduced ORs. These ORs were still elevated but no longer statistically significant, potentially due to a lack of statistical power. No multiplicative interaction was found between neuroticism and exposure to work-related violence/threats, or harassment. However, a statistically significant additive interaction was found between neuroticism and exposure to violence/threats, indicating higher odds of SA due to CMDs in the group scoring lower on neuroticism. CONCLUSIONS Exposure to work-related offensive behaviors was associated with SA due to CMDs. However, the results indicated that these associations may be partly confounded by familial factors. In addition, an interaction between exposure and neuroticism was suggested. Thus, when possible, future studies investigating associations and causality between offensive behaviors at work and mental health-related outcomes, should consider familial factors and neuroticism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Wijkander
- Stress Research Institute, Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden.
- Division of Insurance Medicine, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Pia Svedberg
- Division of Insurance Medicine, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jurgita Narusyte
- Division of Insurance Medicine, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Iman Alaie
- Division of Insurance Medicine, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Medical Sciences, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Petra Lindfors
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Tianwei Xu
- Stress Research Institute, Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Linda L Magnusson Hanson
- Stress Research Institute, Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
- Division of Insurance Medicine, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Schulte PA, Sauter SL, Pandalai SP, Tiesman HM, Chosewood LC, Cunningham TR, Wurzelbacher SJ, Pana-Cryan R, Swanson NG, Chang CC, Nigam JAS, Reissman DB, Ray TK, Howard J. An urgent call to address work-related psychosocial hazards and improve worker well-being. Am J Ind Med 2024; 67:499-514. [PMID: 38598122 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Work-related psychosocial hazards are on the verge of surpassing many other occupational hazards in their contribution to ill-health, injury, disability, direct and indirect costs, and impact on business and national productivity. The risks associated with exposure to psychosocial hazards at work are compounded by the increasing background prevalence of mental health disorders in the working-age population. The extensive and cumulative impacts of these exposures represent an alarming public health problem that merits immediate, increased attention. In this paper, we review the linkage between work-related psychosocial hazards and adverse effects, their economic burden, and interventions to prevent and control these hazards. We identify six crucial societal actions: (1) increase awareness of this critical issue through a comprehensive public campaign; (2) increase etiologic, intervention, and implementation research; (3) initiate or augment surveillance efforts; (4) increase translation of research findings into guidance for employers and workers; (5) increase the number and diversity of professionals skilled in preventing and addressing psychosocial hazards; and (6) develop a national regulatory or consensus standard to prevent and control work-related psychosocial hazards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul A Schulte
- Advanced Technologies and Laboratories International Inc., Gaithersburg, Maryland, USA
| | - Steven L Sauter
- Advanced Technologies and Laboratories International Inc., Gaithersburg, Maryland, USA
| | - Sudha P Pandalai
- Division of Science Integration, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Hope M Tiesman
- Division of Safety Research, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA
| | - Lewis C Chosewood
- Office of the Director, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Thomas R Cunningham
- Division of Science Integration, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Steven J Wurzelbacher
- Division of Field Studies and Engineering, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Rene Pana-Cryan
- Office of the Director, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Naomi G Swanson
- Division of Science Integration, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Chia-Chia Chang
- Office of the Director, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jeannie A S Nigam
- Division of Science Integration, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Dori B Reissman
- Office of the Director, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Tapas K Ray
- Office of the Director, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - John Howard
- Office of the Director, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Washington, DC, USA
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6
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Nasirpour N, Shalbafan M, Savari E, Pirani A, Baradaran HR, Motevalian A. Effort-reward imbalance and common mental disorders among public sector employees of Iran: a cross-sectional analysis. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1447. [PMID: 38816820 PMCID: PMC11138094 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18871-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The effort-reward imbalance (ERI) model is a widely used theoretical model to measure stress in the workplace. The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between ERI and three common mental disorders: major depressive disorder (MDD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). METHODS In this cross-sectional analysis, the study sample consisted of 4453 baseline participants of the Employees' Health Cohort Study of Iran (EHCSIR). Trained psychologists utilized the Persian version of the Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI-2.1) during the baseline assessment to identify common mental disorders. Additionally, the validated Persian version of the 23-item ERI questionnaire was employed to assess effort, reward, overcommitment, and effort-reward ratio. To examine the association of ERI components with three common mental disorders (MDD, GAD, and OCD) over the past twelve months, multiple logistic regression analyses were conducted. RESULTS The prevalence of effort-reward imbalance in the study sample was 47.1%. Higher ERI score was significantly associated with MDD (OR: 3.43, 95% CI: 2.30-5.13), GAD (OR: 2.42, 95% CI: 1.27-4.63), and OCD (OR: 2.23, 95% CI:1.19-4.19). The study participants who reported higher scores on work overcommitment had a higher likelihood of having MDD (OR: 1.16, 95% CI:1.10-1.23), GAD (OR: 1.07, 95% CI: 1.01-1.14), and OCD (OR: 1.19, 95% CI: 1.09-1.29). CONCLUSIONS According to the study's findings, work-related stress, as determined by the ERI model, is a significant factor in the development of common mental disorders among employees in the public sector.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nastaran Nasirpour
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammadreza Shalbafan
- Mental Health Research Center, Psychosocial Health Research Institute (PHRI), Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ebtesam Savari
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ahmad Pirani
- Mental Health Research Center, Psychosocial Health Research Institute (PHRI), Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamid Reza Baradaran
- Endocrine Research Center, Endocrinology & Metabolism Research Institute, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abbas Motevalian
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Research Center for Addiction and Risky Behaviors (ReCARB), Psychosocial Health Research Institute (PHRI), Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Corrente M, Park J, Akuamoah-Boateng H, Atanackovic J, Bourgeault IL. Work & life stress experienced by professional workers during the pandemic: a gender-based analysis. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1441. [PMID: 38811928 PMCID: PMC11137937 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18677-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic impacted work and home life exacerbating pre-existing stressors and introducing new ones. These impacts were notably gendered. In this paper, we explore the different work and home life related stressors of professional workers specifically as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic through the gender-based analysis of two pan Canadian surveys: The Canadian Community Health Survey (2019, 2020, 2021) and the Healthy Professional Worker Survey (2021). Analyses revealed high rates of work stress among professional workers compared to other workers and this was particularly notable for women. Work overload emerged as the most frequently selected source of work stress, followed by digital stress, poor work relations, and uncertainty. Similar trends were noted in life stress among professional workers, particularly women. Time pressure consistently stood out as the primary source of non-work stress, caring for children and physical and mental health conditions. These findings can help to develop more targeted and appropriate workplace mental health promotion initiatives that are applicable to professional workers taking gender more fully into consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Corrente
- School of Sociological and Anthropological Studies, University of Ottawa, 120 University Private, 75 Laurier Ave E, Ottawa, ON, K1N6N5, Canada
| | - Jungwee Park
- Health Analysis Division, Statistics Canada, 150 Tunney's Pasture Driveway, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Henrietta Akuamoah-Boateng
- School of Sociological and Anthropological Studies, University of Ottawa, 120 University Private, 75 Laurier Ave E, Ottawa, ON, K1N6N5, Canada
| | - Jelena Atanackovic
- School of Sociological and Anthropological Studies, University of Ottawa, 120 University Private, 75 Laurier Ave E, Ottawa, ON, K1N6N5, Canada
| | - Ivy Lynn Bourgeault
- School of Sociological and Anthropological Studies, University of Ottawa, 120 University Private, 75 Laurier Ave E, Ottawa, ON, K1N6N5, Canada.
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Marcatto F, Patriarca E, Bramuzzo D, Lucci E, Larese Filon F. Job demands and DHEA-S levels: a study on healthcare workers. Occup Med (Lond) 2024; 74:225-229. [PMID: 38457425 DOI: 10.1093/occmed/kqae017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The intricate interplay between work-related stress and its physiological impact has drawn extensive research attention. Dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEA-S) emerges as a potential biomarker reflecting stress-related endocrine changes. AIMS This cross-sectional study aimed to examine the association between job demands and DHEA-S levels among healthcare workers. The study also explored potential correlations between DHEA-S levels and psychophysical symptoms commonly linked to work-related stress. METHODS A sample of 488 healthcare workers from a local health authority participated. Job demands were measured using the Demands scale of the Health and Safety Management Standards Indicator Tool. DHEA-S levels and symptom prevalence were assessed through serum analysis and questionnaires, respectively. RESULTS Workers exposed to high job demands exhibited significantly lower DHEA-S levels compared to those with low job demands. Psychophysical symptoms, including sleep disorders, depression, and headache, were more prevalent in the high-demands group. DHEA-S levels showed significant negative correlations with the prevalence of all considered symptoms. CONCLUSIONS The study shows the inverse relationship between job demands and DHEA-S levels among healthcare workers, indicating that high job demands correlate with reduced DHEA-S secretion and increased symptom prevalence. The findings suggest DHEA-S as a potential biomarker for assessing the physiological consequences of work-related stress. Proactive interventions in managing job demands are crucial for promoting employee well-being and productivity in demanding work environments. By recognizing DHEA-S as a stress biomarker, organizations can effectively address stress-related health risks and implement targeted interventions for enhancing employees' overall health and work performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Marcatto
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - E Patriarca
- Clinical Unit of Occupational Medicine, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - D Bramuzzo
- Clinical Unit of Occupational Medicine, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - E Lucci
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - F Larese Filon
- Clinical Unit of Occupational Medicine, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
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9
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Parkes S, Irizar P, Greenberg N, Wessely S, Fear NT, Hotopf M, Stevelink SAM. Sickness absence and associations with sociodemographic factors, health risk behaviours, occupational stressors and adverse mental health in 40,343 UK police employees. Epidemiol Psychiatr Sci 2024; 33:e26. [PMID: 38712441 PMCID: PMC11094650 DOI: 10.1017/s2045796024000283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
AIMS Police employees may experience high levels of stress due to the challenging nature of their work which can then lead to sickness absence. To date, there has been limited research on sickness absence in the police. This exploratory analysis investigated sickness absence in UK police employees. METHODS Secondary data analyses were conducted using data from the Airwave Health Monitoring Study (2006-2015). Past year sickness absence was self-reported and categorised as none, low (1-5 days), moderate (6-19 days) and long-term sickness absence (LTSA, 20 or more days). Descriptive statistics and multinomial logistic regressions were used to examine sickness absence and exploratory associations with sociodemographic factors, occupational stressors, health risk behaviours, and mental health outcomes, controlling for rank, gender and age. RESULTS From a sample of 40,343 police staff and police officers, forty-six per cent had no sickness absence within the previous year, 33% had a low amount, 13% a moderate amount and 8% were on LTSA. The groups that were more likely to take sick leave were women, non-uniformed police staff, divorced or separated, smokers and those with three or more general practitioner consultations in the past year, poorer mental health, low job satisfaction and high job strain. CONCLUSIONS The study highlights the groups of police employees who may be more likely to take sick leave and is unique in its use of a large cohort of police employees. The findings emphasise the importance of considering possible modifiable factors that may contribute to sickness absence in UK police forces.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. Parkes
- King’s Centre for Military Health Research, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - P. Irizar
- Department of Sociology, School of Social Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - N. Greenberg
- King’s Centre for Military Health Research, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - S. Wessely
- King’s Centre for Military Health Research, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - N. T. Fear
- King’s Centre for Military Health Research, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
- Academic Department of Military Mental Health, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - M. Hotopf
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - S. A. M. Stevelink
- King’s Centre for Military Health Research, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
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10
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Marcatto F, Patriarca E, Bramuzzo D, Lucci E, Filon FL. Investigating the role of organizational stress in nurses' psychosomatic complaints: Evidence from a study in northeastern Italy. AIMS Public Health 2024; 11:420-431. [PMID: 39027390 PMCID: PMC11252574 DOI: 10.3934/publichealth.2024021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 03/10/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Nursing is pivotal to healthcare delivery but is often associated with high levels of organizational stress. In this cross-sectional study, we aimed to investigate the associations between exposure to organizational stressors, measured using the Health and Safety Executive Management Standards Indicator Tool, and psychosomatic complaints among nurses in a medium-sized city hospital in northeastern Italy. Methods A total of 215 nurses participated in the study, completing self-report questionnaires assessing organizational stressors and the prevalence of psychosomatic complaints experienced over the preceding six months. Results Significant associations were observed between various organizational stressors and psychosomatic complaints among nurses. Specifically, the Relationships factor emerged as a significant predictor of palpitations, irritability, anxiety, physical and mental tiredness, and headache. Additionally, Demands and Managers' support were identified as significant predictors of specific psychosomatic complaints. Conclusion This study highlights the critical role of addressing organizational stressors, particularly those related to interpersonal relationships, in promoting nurse well-being and optimizing patient care delivery. Despite its strengths, including the use of a well-established measurement tool and a comprehensive assessment of psychosomatic complaints, limitations such as the cross-sectional design and self-report measures warrant consideration. By prioritizing supportive work environments and implementing targeted interventions, healthcare organizations can cultivate a culture of well-being among nurses, ultimately enhancing the quality and safety of healthcare delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emilia Patriarca
- Clinical Unit of Occupational Medicine, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Davide Bramuzzo
- Clinical Unit of Occupational Medicine, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Emanuela Lucci
- Clinical Unit of Occupational Medicine, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
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Abou Zeid MAG, Khedr MA, Rayan HN, Mostafa B, El-Ashry AM. The relationship between organizational dehumanization and work engagement: the mediating effect of nurses' work stress. BMC Nurs 2024; 23:193. [PMID: 38515082 PMCID: PMC10958847 DOI: 10.1186/s12912-024-01841-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Organizational dehumanization has detrimental consequences for nurses' wellbeing and leads to a stressful work environment. Moreover, it is very destructive to work engagement. AIM To examine the mediating role of nurses' work stress between organizational dehumanization and work engagement. METHOD A cross-sectional research design was conducted with 245 staff nurses over a one-month period. The researchers used structured equation modeling. RESULTS Work engagement and organizational dehumanization levels were both moderate. In addition, the degree of job stress among the nurses was moderate, too. The results of the structural equation modeling showed that the association between organizational dehumanization and job engagement is partially mediated by work stress. CONCLUSIONS For staff nurses to exhibit high levels of caring behaviors, this study emphasized the need to establish a work environment that employs tactics to improve workplace engagement and happiness. In addition to changing the organizational culture of nurses to eradicate organizational dehumanization and pressures related to the job.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mahmoud Abdelwahab Khedr
- Psychiatric and mental health nursing, faculty of nursing, Alexandria university, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Heba Nasser Rayan
- Nursing Administration Department, Faculty of Nursing, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Boshra Mostafa
- Nursing administration, faculty of nursing, Aswan university, Aswan, Egypt
| | - Ayman Mohamed El-Ashry
- Psychiatric and mental health nursing, faculty of nursing, Alexandria university, Alexandria, Egypt.
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Keshmiri F. Exploring workplace mental health: educator perspectives and factors in the medical education system - a mixed method study. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2024; 24:127. [PMID: 38331817 PMCID: PMC10854055 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-024-05095-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The present study aimed to assess the status of workplace mental health from the viewpoints of educators, and explore their experiences concerning influential factors on occupational mental health at Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences. METHODS The study was a sequential mixed-method study that was conducted in quantitative and qualitative phases. In the quantitative phase, the perception of educators (n = 205) was assessed by a Workplace Mental Health Questionnaire, including 37 items in 9 categories (including an opportunity to control, an opportunity to use skills, external goals created, environmental diversity, environmental clarity, access to money, physical security, opportunity to contact others, and valuable social status and position). In the qualitative phase, data were collected using semi-structured interviews (n = 21) and were analyzed based on the conventional content analysis approach. RESULTS The results showed that the status of workplace mental health of educators was at a moderate level (mean (± SD) = 115.87 (±3.21). The highest and lowest scores of the median were reported in the domains of "opportunity for control" (median = 4) and "opportunity to contact others" (median = 2.75), respectively. The theme of "contrast between preferences and disappointments in the development path" with two categories including "induced demotivation of system elements" and "tendencies of promotion" was explored from the educators' perspective. CONCLUSION The results indicated the moderate level of mental health of educators was influenced by the contrast between preferences and disappointments in the development path. The tendency of educators for promotion was explored as a positive factor in the mental health of educators in the academic environment. A growing desire for creative advancement among educators as a personal factor and a demand to stay updated with all developments as a system factor explained the positive experiences of educators in the university. The results showed the gap between the current situation and the desired state of occupational mental health may result from cultural challenges, lack of adherence to professionalism at the personal level (non-compliance with the principles of well-being and excellence), and interpersonal level (non-compliance with respect, justice, etc.). Moreover, factors disrupting occupational mental health at the system level explored in job stress, a resilient culture, lack of managerial support, ingratitude, lack of reward-effort matching mechanism, and lack of resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Keshmiri
- Medical Education Department, Educational Development Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.
- National Agency for Strategic Research in Medical Education, Tehran, Iran.
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Gelaw A, Parker S, Johnson A, Nguyen H, Jolly A, Forner V, Deng C, Collie A. Determinants of psychological injury among health and social care workers in community settings: A systematic review. Work 2024; 78:3-27. [PMID: 38578915 DOI: 10.3233/wor-230426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health and Social Care (HSC) workers face psychological health risks in the workplace. While many studies have described psychological injuries in HSC workers, few have examined the determinants. Previous research has primarily focused on hospitals, lacking systematic reviews of community-based settings. OBJECTIVE To systematically identify and appraise current evidence on the determinants of psychological injuries among HSC workers in community settings. METHODS Searches were conducted in three bibliographic databases, supplemented by citation searches. Included studies focused on community-based HSC workers, reporting statistical associations between psychological injury and personal, health, occupational, or organizational factors. Quantitative studies published in English between January 1, 2000 and August 15, 2023 were included. Quality appraisal was undertaken using the JBI critical appraisal checklist. RESULTS Sixty-six studies were included. Study quality was highly variable, and all studies were cross-sectional. Twenty-three studies linked psychological injury with occupational factors (e.g. low job control, high job demands and low job satisfaction). Thirteen studies observed an association between work environment and psychological injury, and a further eleven between workplace social support and psychological injury. Fewer studies have examined the relationship between psychological injury and personal/individual factors. CONCLUSION Occupational and organisational factors are significantly associated with psychological health among HSA workers, in community settings. These aspects of job design, work environment and workplace relationships are modifiable, suggesting an opportunity for work design interventions to improve workers' psychological health and reduce the prevalence of psychological injury in this sector.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmare Gelaw
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Sharon Parker
- Future of Work Institute, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Anya Johnson
- The University of Sydney Business School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Helena Nguyen
- The University of Sydney Business School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Anu Jolly
- Future of Work Institute, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Vivien Forner
- The University of Sydney Business School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Connie Deng
- The University of Sydney Business School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Alex Collie
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Medina-Córdoba M, Cadavid S, Espinosa-Aranzales AF, Aguía-Rojas K, Bermúdez-Hernández PA, Quiroga-Torres DA, Rodríguez-Dueñas WR. The effect of interprofessional education on the work environment of health professionals: a scoping review. ADVANCES IN HEALTH SCIENCES EDUCATION : THEORY AND PRACTICE 2023:10.1007/s10459-023-10300-4. [PMID: 38038831 DOI: 10.1007/s10459-023-10300-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
To explore the existing literature on the effect of Interprofessional Education (IPE) on the work environment of health professionals. The research question was systematized according to the PCC (Population, Concept, and Context) format. A scoping review was performed. A search of multiple bibliographic databases identified 407 papers, of which 21 met the inclusion criteria. The populations of the 21 studies reviewed were composed of professionals in the fields of medicine, nursing, psychology, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, and social work, among others. The study contexts were both academic and nonacademic hospitals, mental health institutions, and community settings, and the topics examined were organizational climate, organizational culture, organizational attachment and job satisfaction. The findings from the reviewed studies showed positive effects of IPE interventions on organizational climate and culture, but the results on job satisfaction and organizational attachment were mixed (i.e., positive and no effects following IPE interventions). Research on IPE is worth more attention as IPE could be an effective alternative for the fulfillment of the Quadruple Aim and achieving the third of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, aimed at improving health and well-being. It seems critical for IPE to be positioned as a trend in global health, aiming at boosting human health resources as one of its building blocks and calling the attention of health decision-makers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sara Cadavid
- Program of Psychology, People, Family and Society Research Group, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogota, Colombia.
| | | | - Karen Aguía-Rojas
- Program of Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation Science Research Group, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogota, Colombia
| | - Pablo Andrés Bermúdez-Hernández
- Program of Medicine, Medical and Health Sciences Education Research Group, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogota, Colombia
| | - Daniel-Alejandro Quiroga-Torres
- Program of Biomedical Engineering, Gibiome Research Group, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogota, Colombia
| | - William R Rodríguez-Dueñas
- Program of Biomedical Engineering, Gibiome Research Group, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogota, Colombia
- Electronics Engineering Department, Bioengineering Signal Analysis and Image Processing Research Group, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogota, Colombia
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Kabir H, Bhullar N, Islam MS, Usher K, Haque ME, Maple M. Prevalence and risk factors of physical and psychological health among readymade garment workers in Bangladesh. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND ERGONOMICS 2023; 29:1572-1583. [PMID: 37715515 DOI: 10.1080/10803548.2023.2260168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/17/2023]
Abstract
Objective. Poor health outcomes of Bangladeshi readymade garment (RMG) workers tend to be associated with a variety of occupational factors. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of, and risk factors associated with, the physical and psychological health outcomes of Bangladeshi RMG workers. Methods. Responses to a cross-sectional survey from a convenience sample of 411 adult Bangladeshi RMG workers (mean age = 26.24 years; SD 6.40 years; female = 80%) were analysed using bivariate and multivariate (logistic regression models) analyses. Results. More than half of the participants reported headaches (61.6%) and colds/flu (51.3%), followed by fever (37.2%), diarrhoea (32.8%), bodily pain (29.9%) and respiratory infections (20.9%). For psychological health, stress (69.1%), anxiety (66.2%) and boredom (64.5%) were most prevalent, followed by sleeplessness (51.3%), depression (48.2%) and fear (34.3%). RMG workers from the factories located in Chattogram (a peripheral region compared to Dhaka) reported poorer physical and psychological health outcomes than those working in factories in Dhaka (the capital city of Bangladesh). Overall, compared to males, female RMG workers were more likely to be vulnerable to both physical and psychological health outcomes. Conclusion. Improvement in workplace conditions and safety programmes is needed to safeguard the overall health outcomes of Bangladeshi RMG workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Humayun Kabir
- School of Health, University of New England, Australia
- Department of Sociology, University of Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Navjot Bhullar
- School Psychology, University of New England, Australia
- Discipline of Psychology, Edith Cowan University, Australia
| | | | - Kim Usher
- School of Health, University of New England, Australia
| | | | - Myfanwy Maple
- School of Health, University of New England, Australia
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Kyndi M, Willert MV, Vestergaard JM, Andersen JH, Christiansen DH, Dalgaard VL. Long-term follow-up study of work status among patients with work-related mental disorders referred to departments of occupational medicine in Denmark. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e072217. [PMID: 37935518 PMCID: PMC10632875 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-072217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To describe the 5 year work status in patients referred for suspected work-related common mental disorders. To develop a prognostic model. DESIGN Register-based nationwide longitudinal follow-up study. SETTING All departments of occupational medicine in Denmark. PARTICIPANTS 17 822 patients aged 18-67 years, seen for the first time at a Department of Occupational Medicine in Denmark from 2000 to 2013 and diagnosed with stress, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety or other mental disorders. INTERVENTIONS All patients were seen for diagnostic assessment and causal evaluation of the work-relatedness of their disorders. Some departments offered patients with stress disorders psychological treatment, which, however, was not organised according to patient selection or type of treatment. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES Register data were collected for 5 year periods before and after the patients' first assessment at a department. Weekly percentages of patients are presented according to work status. The outcome in the prognostic model was a high Work Participation Score (ie, working>75% of potential work weeks/year) at 5 year follow-up. RESULTS For all subgroups of patients, a high proportion were working (>75%) 1-5 years before assessment, and all experienced a large reduction in work status at time of assessment. At 1 year follow-up, almost 60% of patients with stress were working, whereas in the other patient subgroups, less than 40% were working. In the following years, practically no increase was observed in the percentage of patients working in any of the subgroups. Based on these 5 year follow-up data, we developed a work participation model with only moderate discrimination and calibration. CONCLUSIONS In Denmark, not all return to previous work status 5 years after a referral due to a suspected work-related common mental disorder. We developed a prognostic model with only moderate discrimination and calibration for long-term work participation after suggested work-related common mental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianne Kyndi
- Department of Occupational Medicine, University Clinic, Gødstrup Regional Hospital, Herning, Denmark
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Morten Vejs Willert
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Jesper Medom Vestergaard
- Department of Occupational Medicine, University Clinic, Gødstrup Regional Hospital, Herning, Denmark
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Johan Hviid Andersen
- Department of Occupational Medicine, University Clinic, Gødstrup Regional Hospital, Herning, Denmark
| | - David Høyrup Christiansen
- Centre for Research in Health and Nursing, Research, Regional Hospital Central Jutland, Viborg, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Elective surgery centre, Silkeborg Regional Hospital, Silkeborg, Denmark
| | - Vita Ligaya Dalgaard
- Department of Occupational Medicine, University Clinic, Gødstrup Regional Hospital, Herning, Denmark
- Department of Psychology and Behavioural Sciences, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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Gaspar T, Gomez-Baya D, Guedes FB, Correia MF. Health Management: Evaluating the Relationship between Organizational Factors, Psychosocial Risks at Work, Performance Management, and Hospital Outcomes. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2744. [PMID: 37893818 PMCID: PMC10606603 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11202744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction-Health system (HS) health organizations are complex and are in constant dynamic interaction with multiple elements, including political, environmental, societal, legal, and organizational factors, along with human components, such as human resources, patients, and other stakeholders. Objective-This research aimed to study three HS organizations, identifying and characterizing the elements of health organizations and the factors related to professionals, determining their influence on economic and financial performance results, as well as results related to the professionals and to the patients comprising the institutions. Method-A quantitative study was conducted in which data were collected through questionnaires from various sources to better understand and characterize the factors related to organizations, professionals, and patients (470 health professionals and 768 patients). To test the integrated evaluation model for health organizations, path analysis was used. Results-The results reveal that the organizational culture (OC) presents a positive relationship between the professional's quality of life (QL) and the performance management (PM) of the professionals, along with a negative relationship with the psychosocial work risks (PWR). There is also a relationship between the OC and patient satisfaction (PS), professional job satisfaction (PJS), and economic and financial results (EFR). In the relationship between the processes and the results, there are significant relationships between PM and PJS and PWR and PJS. In terms of the results, there is a significant relationship between the EFR and the PS. Conclusions-This study contributes to a deeper knowledge of the factors that influence the quality of health organizations and their results and produces recommendations for health organizations to address the current challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tânia Gaspar
- Digital Human-Environment Interaction Labs (HEI-LAB), Universidade Lusófona, 1749-024 Lisbon, Portugal
- Institute of Environmental Health (ISAMB), Lisbon University, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal; (F.B.G.); (M.F.C.)
| | - Diego Gomez-Baya
- Department of Social, Developmental and Educational Psychology, Universidad de Huelva, 21004 Huelva, Spain;
| | - Fábio Botelho Guedes
- Institute of Environmental Health (ISAMB), Lisbon University, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal; (F.B.G.); (M.F.C.)
| | - Manuela Faia Correia
- Institute of Environmental Health (ISAMB), Lisbon University, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal; (F.B.G.); (M.F.C.)
- COMEGI—Centro de Investigação em Organizações, Mercados e Gestão Industrial, Lusiada University, 1349-001 Lisbon, Portugal
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Lunen JC, Rugulies R, Sørensen JK, Andersen LL, Clausen T. Exploring exposure to multiple psychosocial work factors: prospective associations with depression and sickness absence. Eur J Public Health 2023; 33:821-827. [PMID: 37533280 PMCID: PMC10567252 DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckad118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most studies on the psychosocial working environment have focused on evaluating the isolated effect of individual psychosocial work factors or looked at effects through a lens of theories such as job strain or effort-reward imbalance. However, to fathom the intricate nature of workers' experience of occupational strain, there is a need to investigate the combined and cumulative effects of multiple exposures to psychosocial work factors on workers' health. METHODS In this prospective cohort study, we created an additive index (range 0-4) on number of baseline exposures to quantitative demands, emotional demands, role conflicts, and workplace bullying. Via logistic regression and Cox regression, we estimated the association between the additive index of psychosocial work factors and depressive disorder and long-term sickness absence (LTSA). We assessed the onset of depressive disorder using the Major Depression Inventory at 6-month follow-up and the onset of LTSA using a national register during 12-month follow-up. RESULTS For onset of depressive disorder, high exposure to any one [odds ratio (OR) 2.98], two (OR 3.14), three (OR 6.44) and all four (OR 9.62) adverse psychosocial work factors predicted a statistically significant increased risk. For onset of LTSA, high exposure to any one [hazard ratio (HR) 1.13], two (HR 1.67), three (HR 2.31) and all four (HR 4.04) psychosocial work factors predicted an increased risk. The two latter associations were statistically significant. Trend tests indicated an exposure-response relationship for both outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Workers reporting exposure to multiple adverse psychosocial work factors had a higher risk of developing depressive disorder and LTSA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Christian Lunen
- Department of Psychosocial Work Environment, National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Occupational Health and Social Medicine, Holbæk Hospital, Holbæk, Denmark
| | - Reiner Rugulies
- Department of Psychosocial Work Environment, National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Section of Epidemiology, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jeppe K Sørensen
- Department of Psychosocial Work Environment, National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lars L Andersen
- Department of Musculoskeletal Disorders, National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Thomas Clausen
- Department of Psychosocial Work Environment, National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Beno A, Bertilsson M, Holmgren K, Glise K, Pousette A, Segerfelt K, Björk L. Does employer involvement in primary health care enhance return to work for patients with stress-related mental disorders? a cluster randomized controlled trial. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2023; 24:195. [PMID: 37730561 PMCID: PMC10512560 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-023-02151-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stress-related disorders have become a major challenge for society and are associated with rising levels of sick leave. The provision of support to facilitate the return to work (RTW) for this patient group is of great importance. The aim of the present study was to evaluate whether a new systematic procedure with collaboration between general practitioners (GPs), rehabilitation coordinators (RCs) and employers could reduce sick leave days for this patient group. METHOD Employed patients with stress-related diagnoses seeking care at primary health care centres (PHCCs) were included in either the intervention group (n = 54), following the systematic intervention procedure, or the control group (n = 58), receiving treatment as usual (TAU). The intervention included a) a training day for participant GPs and RCs, b) a standardised procedure for GPs and RCs to follow after training, c) the opportunity to receive clinical advice from specialist physicians in the research group. Outcome measures for RTW were sick leave days. RESULTS The median number of registered gross sick leave days was lower for the control group at six, 12 and 24 months after inclusion, but the difference was not statistically significant. The control group had significantly fewer net sick leave days at three months (p = 0.03) at six months (p = 0.00) and at 12-months follow-up (p = 0.01). At 24 months, this difference was no longer significant. CONCLUSIONS The PRIMA intervention, which applied a standardized procedure for employer involvement in the rehabilitation process for patients with stress-related disorders, actually increased time to RTW compared to TAU. However, at 24 months, the benefit of TAU could no longer be confirmed. The study was registered on 16/01/2017 (ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03022760).
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja Beno
- Institute of Stress Medicine, Region Västra Götaland, Carl Skottsbergs Gata 22B, SE-413 19, Gothenburg, Sweden.
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden.
| | - Monica Bertilsson
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Kristina Holmgren
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Kristina Glise
- Institute of Stress Medicine, Region Västra Götaland, Carl Skottsbergs Gata 22B, SE-413 19, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Anders Pousette
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden
- The Department of Psychology, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Karin Segerfelt
- Institute of Stress Medicine, Region Västra Götaland, Carl Skottsbergs Gata 22B, SE-413 19, Gothenburg, Sweden
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Lisa Björk
- Institute of Stress Medicine, Region Västra Götaland, Carl Skottsbergs Gata 22B, SE-413 19, Gothenburg, Sweden
- The Department of Work Science and Sociology, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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20
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Baek SU, Yoon JH, Won JU. Reciprocal longitudinal associations of supportive workplace relationships with depressive symptoms and self-rated health: A study of Korean women. Soc Sci Med 2023; 333:116176. [PMID: 37603944 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2023.116176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Supportive relationships in the workplace are important determinants of an individual's psychological health, buffering work stress. This study aimed to estimate the bidirectional association of workplace relationships with depressive symptoms and self-rated health in female workers. METHODS Based on the nationally representative biannual survey data from 2014 (T1) to 2020 (T4) (N = 2556), we used a random intercept cross-lagged panel model (RI-CLPM) to estimate autoregressive and cross-lagged bidirectional associations between workplace relationships and health variables. RESULTS Regarding satisfactory workplace relationships and depressive symptoms, a negative correlation was observed at the between-person level. At the within-person level, the cross-lagged path showed that an increase in satisfaction with workplace relationships was related to a subsequent decrease in depressive (T1 to T2: β = -0.039; B = -0.253, P = 0.017). Further, an increase in depressive symptoms was related to subsequent relationship deterioration in the workplace (T1 to T2: β = -0.049, B = -0.007, P = 0.003). Regarding workplace relationships and self-rated health, a positive correlation was observed at the between-person level. At the within-person level, there as was no significant within-person level association between WPR and self-rated health. and the effect sizes were small. CONCLUSIONS This study suggests a bidirectional association between workplace relationships and depressive symptoms. Therefore, it is important to implement intervention programs that promote workplace interpersonal relationships and workers' mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seong-Uk Baek
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea; The Institute for Occupational Health, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea; Graduate School, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jin-Ha Yoon
- The Institute for Occupational Health, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea; Department of Preventive Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jong-Uk Won
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea; The Institute for Occupational Health, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.
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21
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Ekezie PE, Eriksson U, Shaw BA, Agahi N, Nilsen C. Is the mental health of older adults receiving care from their children related to their children's dual burden of caregiving and work stress? A linked lives perspective. Aging Ment Health 2023; 27:1796-1802. [PMID: 36137944 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2022.2126820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Mental health problems are a major concern in the older population in Sweden, as is the growing number of older adults aging alone in their homes and in need of informal care. Using a linked lives perspective, this study explored if older parents' mental health is related to their children's dual burden of informal caregiving and job strain. METHODS Data from a nationally representative Swedish survey, SWEOLD, were used. Mental health problems in older age (mean age 88) were measured with self-reported 'mild' or 'severe' anxiety and depressive symptoms. A primary caregiving adult child was linked to each older parent, and this child's occupation was matched with a job exposure matrix to assess job strain. Logistic regression analyses were conducted with an analytic sample of 334. RESULTS After adjusting for covariates, caregiving children's lower job control and greater job strain were each associated with mental health problems in their older parents (OR 2.52, p = 0.008 and OR 2.56, p = 0.044, respectively). No association was found between caregiving children's job demands and their older parents' mental health (OR 1.08, p = 0.799). CONCLUSION In line with the linked lives perspective, results highlight that the work-life balance of informal caregiving adult children may play a role in their older parent's mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Promise E Ekezie
- Institute of Gerontology, School of Health and Welfare, Jönköping University, Jönköping, Sweden
| | - Ulrika Eriksson
- Institute of Gerontology, School of Health and Welfare, Jönköping University, Jönköping, Sweden
| | - Benjamin A Shaw
- Division of Community Health Sciences, University of Illinois Chicago School of Public Health, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Neda Agahi
- Aging Research Center, Karolinska Institutet and Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Charlotta Nilsen
- Institute of Gerontology, School of Health and Welfare, Jönköping University, Jönköping, Sweden
- Aging Research Center, Karolinska Institutet and Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
- Stress Research Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
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22
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Helgesson M, Gustafsson K, Leineweber C. Psychosocial and organisational work factors as predictors of sickness absence among professionally active adults with common mental disorders. BMC Psychiatry 2023; 23:543. [PMID: 37495944 PMCID: PMC10373327 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-023-05020-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The incidence of sickness absence (SA) due to common mental disorders (CMDs) has increased in recent decades. It is hence important to elucidate how individuals with CMDs can maintain work. The aim was to analyse the relationship between psychosocial and organisational workplace factors and a spell of > 14 days of SA among persons with CMDs. METHODS Included were respondents of the Swedish Work Environment Survey (SWES) 1993-2013, diagnosed with a CMD up to five years before the interview in the SWES (n = 3,795). Relative Risk (RR) regression models with 95% Confidence Intervals (CIs) analysed associations between psychosocial-, and organisational workplace factors and a subsequent spell of SA > 14 days. RESULTS Low control over work (RR:1.16; CI:1.01-1.35), job strain (RR:1.25; CI:1.04-1.49), no flexible working hours (RR:1.25; CI:1.08-1.45) or no possibility to work from home (RR:1.37; CI:1.13-1.66) were significantly related to an increased risk of SA. Persons diagnosed with depression experiencing job strain had the highest increased risk of SA (RR:1.55; CI: 1.07-2.25). CONCLUSIONS A sustainable work-life among working individuals with CMDs can be provided by reducing job strain, and if possible, by increasing flexibility regarding workplace and working hours. This may prevent spells of SA, and hereby increase productivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magnus Helgesson
- Division of Insurance Medicine, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, SE-17177, Sweden.
- Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Health Equity and Working Life, Uppsala University, Uppsala, SE-75237, Sweden.
| | - Klas Gustafsson
- Division of Insurance Medicine, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, SE-17177, Sweden
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23
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Malinauskas R, Malinauskiene V. Characteristics of Stress and Burnout among Lithuanian University Coaches: A Pre-Pandemic Coronavirus and Post-Pandemic Period Comparison. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2096. [PMID: 37510538 PMCID: PMC10379386 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11142096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: The majority of studies analyzing associations between burnout, gender, and perceived stress have utilized a cross-sectional design. This present longitudinal study investigated associations between burnout, perceived stress, and gender compared during the pre-pandemic Coronavirus and post-pandemic period among Lithuanian university coaches. (2) Methods: 214 university coaches were randomly selected for the study. Study participants completed two measurements: one pre-pandemic and the second post-pandemic. (3) Results: Gender differences were identified on all burnout elements but not on perceived stress. Repeated measures (RM) multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) results did not show a significant effect for the interaction between gender and time. Results of hierarchical (stepwise) regression analyses revealed that perceived stress after the pandemic predicted burnout levels for all three burnout components (exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced accomplishment) after the pandemic. (4) Conclusions: The current study contributes to the understanding of burnout components in relation to perceived stress through a longitudinal approach using a representative sample of Lithuanian university coaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romualdas Malinauskas
- Department of Physical and Social Education, Lithuanian Sports University, Sporto 6, LT-44221 Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Vilija Malinauskiene
- Department of Physical and Social Education, Lithuanian Sports University, Sporto 6, LT-44221 Kaunas, Lithuania
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24
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Thibodeau PS, Nash A, Greenfield JC, Bellamy JL. The Association of Moral Injury and Healthcare Clinicians' Wellbeing: A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6300. [PMID: 37444147 PMCID: PMC10341511 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20136300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Research focused on elucidating moral injury amongst healthcare workers (HCWs) is essential due to the deep connection with morality and individuals' overall wellbeing. Examining moral injury provides an avenue through which researchers can connect individual experiences with systemic level causes (i.e., structural power imbalances between clinicians and health systems) to better study workplace wellbeing. The omnipresence of the COVID-19 pandemic has amplified the need to study moral injury. This paper describes a systematic review conducted using PRISMA-P guidelines to answer the question, "what is the association between moral injury and professional wellbeing and mental health amongst healthcare workers." Twelve databases were searched to identify specified studies. This study's criteria included: (1) articles published through December 2022; (2) qualitative and quantitative empirical studies; (3) articles written in English; (4) articles including moral injury; and (5) articles including at minimum one other measure of professional or personal wellbeing. The initial search produced 248 articles, and 18 articles were ultimately included in the final review. To confirm that no articles were left out of this study, the first author of each included article was contacted to inquire about any additional works that met the inclusion criteria of this study. The elements of the 18 included articles described in this review are discussed. The results indicate that moral injury is associated with both professional wellbeing factors and mental health outcomes. Further theoretical development, including (professional- and identity-based) exploratory research on moral injury, and evidenced-based interventions for moral injury are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pari Shah Thibodeau
- Graduate School of Social Work, University of Denver, 2148 S. High Street, Denver, CO 80210, USA
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25
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Alves L, Abreo L, Petkari E, da Costa MP. Psychosocial risk and protective factors associated with burnout in police officers: A systematic review. J Affect Disord 2023; 332:283-298. [PMID: 36972850 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2023.03.081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The specific factors that may influence burnout levels in police officers are not yet clear. Our aim was to systematically identify the psychosocial risk and protective factors associated with burnout among police officers. METHODS This systematic review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA). A protocol was registered in PROSPERO. A search strategy was applied to Medline via OvidSP, PsycInfo, Scopus and Web of Science. The quality assessment entailed the use of the CASP checklist for cohort studies. The data was reported through a narrative synthesis. RESULTS After removing studies based on the selection criteria, 41 studies were included in this review. The findings were synthesized under the following subheadings: socio-demographic; organisational; operational; individual and coping strategies. Organisational and operational factors were found to be risk factors for burnout. Individual factors and coping strategies revealed risk and protective factors. Social interaction-related factors were mostly protective. Socio-demographic factors were weak in explaining burnout. LIMITATIONS Most studies are from high-income countries. Not all used the same burnout measurement tool. All relied on self-reported data. Lastly, 98 % had a cross-sectional design, causal inferences could not be made. CONCLUSIONS Burnout, despite being strictly defined as an occupational phenomenon, is related to factors outside of this context. Future research should focus on examining the reported associations by using more robust designs. More attention must be paid to police officers' mental health by investing in developing strategies to mitigate adverse factors and maximise the effects of protective factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Alves
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Lee Abreo
- South London & Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Eleni Petkari
- Facultad de Ciências de la Salud de la Universidad Internacional de La Rioja, La Rioja, Spain
| | - Mariana Pinto da Costa
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal; South London & Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK; Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College of London, London, UK; Institute of Public Health of the University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.
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26
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Harkko J, Ranta H, Lallukka T, Nordquist H, Mänty M, Kouvonen A. Working conditions and mental health functioning among young public sector employees. Scand J Public Health 2023; 51:98-105. [PMID: 34609255 PMCID: PMC9900189 DOI: 10.1177/14034948211045458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Background: The associations between adverse working conditions and mental disorders are well established. However, associations between adverse working conditions and poor mental health functioning is a less explored area. This study examines these associations among younger public sector employees of the City of Helsinki, Finland. Methods: We use data from the Young Helsinki Health Study with a representative sample of the employees of the City of Helsinki, aged 19-39 years (n=4 217). Mental health functioning was measured with mental composite summary of the Short Form 36. Working conditions included factors related to both the psychosocial (job control and job demands) and the physical work environment (physical workload). To examine the associations, we used logistic regression models with adjustments for socio-demographics, other working conditions and health-related covariates. Results: After adjustment for sociodemographic characteristics, poor health, health behaviours and other occupational exposures, high job demands (OR=1.69; 95% CI=1.45-1.97) and low job control (OR=1.65; 95% CI=1.40-1.94) were associated with poor mental health functioning. High physical workload was not associated with the outcome (OR=0.87; 95% CI=0.72-1.05) after the adjustments. Conclusions: Adverse psychosocial working conditions were associated with mental health functioning, whereas physical working conditions were not. As impaired functioning is likely to cause health-related lost productivity and can lead to work disability, further research and interventions with a balanced approach focusing on both psychosocial working conditions and mental health functioning are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaakko Harkko
- Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Helsinki, Finland
| | - Hertta Ranta
- Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Helsinki, Finland
| | - Tea Lallukka
- Department of Public Health, University of Helsinki, Finland
| | - Hilla Nordquist
- Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Public Health, University of Helsinki, Finland.,South-Eastern Finland University of Applied Sciences, Finland
| | - Minna Mänty
- Department of Public Health, University of Helsinki, Finland.,Unit of strategy and research, City of Vantaa, Vantaa, Finland
| | - Anne Kouvonen
- Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Helsinki, Finland.,Centre for Public Health, Queen's University Belfast, UK
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27
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Lax MB, Zoeckler JM. Occupational Disease in New York State: An Update. New Solut 2023; 32:304-323. [PMID: 36799954 DOI: 10.1177/10482911231152896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
An assessment of occupational disease in New York State was undertaken that partially replicated and expanded earlier work from 1987. Utilizing an expanded conception of occupational disease, the assessment used a variety of data sources and methods to provide estimates of mortality and morbidity of occupational disease; workers exposed to specific workplace hazards; disparities in occupational disease among racial/ethnic groups and gender; costs and distribution of costs of occupational disease; and accessible occupational medical resources. Examples of the pathways work may impact health in some of the major health issues of current import including stress-related health conditions; substance use; and overweight/obesity were included. The report contains recommendations for addressing the problem of occupational disease in New York State and advocates for the convening of a statewide group to develop an occupational disease prevention agenda.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael B Lax
- Occupational Health Clinical Center, Department of Family Medicine State University of New York Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA
| | - Jeanette M Zoeckler
- Occupational Health Clinical Center, Department of Family Medicine State University of New York Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA
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28
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Bianchi R, Verkuilen J, Sowden JF, Schonfeld IS. Towards a new approach to job-related distress: A three-sample study of the Occupational Depression Inventory. Stress Health 2023; 39:137-153. [PMID: 35700982 PMCID: PMC10084211 DOI: 10.1002/smi.3177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The Occupational Depression Inventory (ODI) was recently developed to assess depressive symptoms that individuals specifically attribute to their work. One purpose of the ODI is to respond to limitations of current assessments of job-related distress, most notably, assessments relying on the burnout construct. In this study, we conducted a thorough examination of the psychometric and structural properties of the ODI using exploratory structural equation modelling bifactor analysis and Mokken scale analysis. The study involved three samples of employed individuals, recruited in France (N = 3454), Switzerland (N = 1971), and Australia (N = 1485). Results were consistent across the three samples. The ODI exhibited essential unidimensionality and excellent total-score reliability-as indexed by McDonald's omega, Cronbach's alpha, Guttman's lambda-2, and the Molenaar-Sijtsma statistic. We found evidence for measurement invariance across sexes, age groups, and samples. Mokken scale analysis revealed that the ODI's scalability was strong. No monotonicity violation was detected. Invariant item ordering showed sufficient accuracy. In all three samples, suicidal ideation was the least commonly endorsed item-thus acting as a sentinel item-and fatigue/loss of energy was the most commonly endorsed item. The ODI exhibits excellent psychometric and structural properties, suggesting that occupational health specialists can effectively employ the instrument.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renzo Bianchi
- University of Neuchâtel, Neuchâtel, Switzerland.,Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
| | - Jay Verkuilen
- City University of New York, New York City, New York, USA
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29
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Xu Y, Wang Y. Job stress and university faculty members' life satisfaction: The mediating role of emotional burnout. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1111434. [PMID: 36818103 PMCID: PMC9930908 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1111434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
As one of the leading work-related health problems arising from increasingly fierce competition, work-related stress has become a significant predictor of the reduced wellbeing of university faculty members, especially for non-tenured junior faculty members. In light of this and based on a survey, this research seeks to examine how and why work-related stress impacts the life satisfaction level of university junior faculty members. The results indicate that the three subdivisions of university faculty members' work-related stress, namely, research stress, teaching stress, and administrative stress, are all negatively related to their life satisfaction level. In addition, emotional burnout has been confirmed to function as the psychological mechanism for the aforementioned main effects. The research contributes to the literature mainly by offering a new insight in which the three subdivisions of work-related stress are regarded as independent variables affecting the life satisfaction level of university junior faculty members.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin Xu
- School of Foreign Languages, Renmin University of China, Beijing, China
| | - Yike Wang
- School of Management, Shanghai University of International Business and Economics, Shanghai, China,*Correspondence: Yike Wang,
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30
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Clausen T, Sørensen JK, Dalsager L, Karlsen IL, Kristiansen J. Do different job demands interact as predictors of long-term sickness absence? A register-based follow-up on 55 467 Danish workers. Occup Environ Med 2023; 80:7-13. [PMID: 36270798 PMCID: PMC9763189 DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2022-108444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess interactions between combinations of quantitative demands, emotional demands, unclear and contradictory demands, and violence/threats of violence in the prospective association with risk of long-term sickness absence (LTSA). METHODS We included 55 467 employees from the 2012, 2014 and 2016 waves of the Work Environment and Health in Denmark (WEHD) survey. We measured the four independent variables in the WEHD survey and assessed risk of LTSA in a national register during 12 months of follow-up. Using Cox proportional hazards models, adjusted for age, sex, educational attainment and job group, we estimated risk of LTSA and assessed deviation from additivity using relative excess risk due to interaction (RERI). RESULTS For combinations of high emotional demands and high quantitative demands (HR 1.50; 95% CI 1.33 to 1.70; RERI 0.06; 95% CI -0.15 o 0.26) and high emotional demands and violence/threats of violence (HR 1.76; 95% CI 1.53 to 2.02; RERI 0.12; 95% CI -0.43 to 0.66) we found no indications of deviations from additive effects in predicting LTSA. For combinations of violence/threats of violence and high quantitative demands (HR 1.90; 95% CI 1.64 to 2.20; RERI 0.36; 95% CI 0.01 to 0.71) and unclear and contradictory demands and high quantitative demands (HR 1.46; 95% CI 1.31 to 1.62; RERI 0.23; 95% CI 0.04 to 0.42) the results indicated an excess risk of LTSA above additivity (ie, superadditivity). CONCLUSIONS Participants reporting high quantitative demands combined with either violence/threats of violence or unclear and contradictory demands showed a higher risk of LTSA than expected, indicating superadditivity. Results have implications for preventing negative health effects related to adverse psychosocial working conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Clausen
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Kobenhavn, Denmark
| | | | - Louise Dalsager
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Kobenhavn, Denmark
| | | | - Jesper Kristiansen
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Kobenhavn, Denmark
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31
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Asplund S, Lindgren BM, Åström S, Hedlund M, Åhlin J. Organizational and psychosocial environmental work factors associated with self-rated exhaustion disorder among municipal employees in rural northern Sweden. Work 2023; 75:1215-1229. [PMID: 36776096 PMCID: PMC10473146 DOI: 10.3233/wor-220225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research indicates that good organizational and psychosocial environments are vital to well-functioning workplaces and employee health. Working in the municipal sector and in the rural context may contribute to more health problems, poorer organizational and psychosocial work environments, and higher sick-leave rates. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to explore organizational and psychosocial environmental work factors among municipal employees with or without self-rated exhaustion disorder (s-ED) in rural northern Sweden. METHODS The Modern Work Life Questionnaire and the Self-Rated Exhaustion Disorder Scale were used among 1093 municipal employees. RESULTS The results showed that there were significant differences between the s-ED and the non-s-ED group in all but one of the organizational and psychosocial environmental work factors. Various demands, i.e. quantitative, emotional, intellectual, and IT demands were some factors associated with the s-ED group. Social support, resources, and time for work and reflection were some factors associated with the non-s-ED group. Both the s-ED and the non-s-ED groups assessed significantly higher emotional demands and less resources compared to national reference values. CONCLUSION Findings from this study are relevant to a better understanding what organizational and psychosocial work environmental work factor the employer need to pay extra attention to. Addressing risk and protective factors in the work environment could tribute to promote occupational well-being, preventing exhaustion disorder and long-term sick leave among municipal employees in rural northern Sweden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Asplund
- Department of Nursing, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | | | - Sture Åström
- Department of Nursing, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Mattias Hedlund
- Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Johan Åhlin
- Department of Nursing, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
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32
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Wijkander M, Farrants K, Magnusson Hanson LL. Exposure to work-related violence and/or threats of violence as a predictor of certified sickness absence due to mental disorders: a prospective cohort study of 16,339 Swedish men and women in paid work. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2023; 96:225-236. [PMID: 36070001 PMCID: PMC9905169 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-022-01917-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this prospective cohort study was to investigate if exposure to work-related violence and/or threats of violence predict certified sickness absence due to mental disorders. METHODS Information on work-related exposure to violence and/or threats of violence were derived from the biannual Swedish Longitudinal Occupational Survey of Health (SLOSH) study 2012-2016, including individuals in paid work across Sweden and from different occupations/sectors (n = 16,339). Certified sickness absence due to mental disorders were ascertained from register data from the Swedish Social Insurance Agency. Odds ratios of certified sickness absence due to mental disorders according to exposure to work-related violence were estimated using multiple logistic regression. Several potential confounding variables, such as demographic and socio-economic factors, age, sex, cohabitation, children living at home, socio-economic status, educational level, as well as other types of psychosocial work environmental factors, were adjusted for in the analyses. RESULTS In the total study sample, 9% reported exposure to violence and/or threats of violence and the prevalence of sickness absence due to mental disorders was 5%. Exposure to work-related violence and/or threats of violence was associated prospectively with certified sickness absence due to mental disorders (odds ratio 1.46, 95% confidence interval 1.17-1.82, p < 0.01). Analysis of possible interaction showed no difference in association when comparing women to men and different age groups. CONCLUSIONS Exposure to work-related violence and/or threats of violence appear to increase the odds of certified sickness absence due to mental disorders. Preventive measures aiming to lower the risk of exposure is thus of great importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Wijkander
- Stress Research Institute, Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, 10691, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kristin Farrants
- Division of Insurance Medicine, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Linda L Magnusson Hanson
- Stress Research Institute, Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, 10691, Stockholm, Sweden.
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33
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Daouda OS, Chevance A, Temime L, Légeron P, Gaillard R, Saporta G, Hocine MN. A new ranking index to identify the work-related psychosocial factors most impacting mental health: a cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e046444. [PMID: 36585133 PMCID: PMC9809236 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-046444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In modern professional life, mental health prevention and promotion have become a major challenge for decision-makers. Devising appropriate actions requires better understanding the role played by each work-related psychosocial factor (WPSF). The objective of this study was to present a relevant tool to hierarchise WPSFs that jointly takes into account their importance (impact on mental health) and their prevalence (the proportion of the population exposed to WPSF). DESIGN A cross-sectional study was conducted in March 2018 among 3200 French workers which are representative of the French working population. SETTING France. PARTICIPANTS Individuals aged 18-80 years who declared currently having a job (even a part-time job) whatever their occupation or status (employee or self-employed) were eligible. We excluded students, unemployed individuals, housewives/husbands and retired people. The mental health level was assessed using the General Health Questionnaire-28 and 44 items were gathered from theoretical models of WPSFs. We assessed two distinct multivariate methods for calculating WPSF importance: (1) weifila (weighted first last) method in a linear regression context and (2) random forests in a non-linear context. Both methods were adjusted on individual, health and job characteristics. RESULTS The WPSF rankings obtained with the two methods to calculate importance are strongly consistent with each other (correlation coefficient=0.88). We highlighted nine WPSFs that are ranked high by both methods. In particular, irrespective of the chosen method, lack of communication, lack of social and hierarchy support and personal-professional life imbalance, emotional demands at work and dissatisfaction with the compensation received came out as top-ranking WPSFs. CONCLUSIONS A total of nine WPSFs were identified as key for decision-making. The easy-to-use tools we propose can help decision-makers identify priority WPSFs and design effective strategies to promote mental health in the workplace.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oumou Salama Daouda
- MESuRS Laboratory, Conservatoire National des Arts et Métiers, Paris, France
| | - Astrid Chevance
- CRESS, Inserm, INRA, Hôpital Hôtel-Dieu de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Laura Temime
- MESuRS Laboratory, Conservatoire National des Arts et Métiers, Paris, France
| | - Patrick Légeron
- Centre Hospitalier Sainte Anne, Service Hospitalo-Universitaire de Psychiatrie, Paris, France
| | - Raphaël Gaillard
- Centre Hospitalier Sainte Anne, Service Hospitalo-Universitaire de Psychiatrie, Paris, France
- Centre de Psychiatrie et Neurosciences (CPN), Inserm U894, Paris, France
| | - Gilbert Saporta
- Cédric Laboratory, Conservatoire National des Arts et Métiers, Paris, France
| | - Mounia N Hocine
- MESuRS Laboratory, Conservatoire National des Arts et Métiers, Paris, France
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34
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Skogsberg M, Jarl G, Matérne M. Health care workers' need for support from managers during the initial phase of the COVID-19 pandemic. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:1563. [PMID: 36544137 PMCID: PMC9768758 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-08937-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic placed great pressure on health care workers and increased the risk of these workers developing mental illness. Effective leadership is essential to prevent mental illness from developing. The study aim was to investigate health care workers' perceptions of the support given by their managers, their need for such support, and their levels of anxiety during the initial phase of the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS An electronic study-specific questionnaire was sent to health care workers. A convergent mixed-methods design was used, in which data were analyzed with descriptive statistics, t-tests, and qualitative content analysis. RESULTS The majority of the 1074 participants experienced support from a manager who was physically present, caring, and sensitive to their needs, who provided information, and listened to their opinions. Those who did not receive this support experienced more anxiety, and the majority of them expressed a need for this support. A minority of the participants had a manager who scheduled reflection time; few asked for this support, and it was not found to be associated with lower anxiety levels. The qualitative analysis resulted in four themes: 1) A physically present and responsive manager who provides support based on the workers' needs, 2) The workers understand their manager's tough work situation and lack of resources, 3) There is a need for clear dissemination of information and participation in organizing the work, and 4) The care of patients is carried out with good cooperation. CONCLUSIONS The majority of the health care workers received adequate support from their managers. A manager has to be physically present, caring, and supportive to meet the workers' needs and potentially reduce anxiety levels.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gustav Jarl
- grid.15895.300000 0001 0738 8966University Health Care Research Center, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden ,grid.15895.300000 0001 0738 8966Department of Prosthetics and Orthotics, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Marie Matérne
- grid.15895.300000 0001 0738 8966University Health Care Research Center, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden ,grid.15895.300000 0001 0738 8966School of Law, Psychology and Social Work, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
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Herr RM, Deyerl VM, Hilger-Kolb J, Diehl K. University Fairness Questionnaire (UFair): Development and Validation of a German Questionnaire to Assess University Justice-A Study Protocol of a Mixed Methods Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:16340. [PMID: 36498410 PMCID: PMC9739444 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192316340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Distress is a widespread phenomenon in the general population, but also among university students, associated with poorer learning success and negative health consequences. A source of distress might be the experience of injustice. Theoretical and empirical work in the area of perceived fairness in the workplace ("organizational justice") has shown that perceived unfairness is related to various stress indicators and health outcomes. Preliminary evidence indicates that unfairness matters not only in the work context but also in the university context. However, an adapted and validated tool to assess perceived unfairness in the university context is hitherto missing. The goal of the proposed project is therefore to adapt the construct of organizational justice to the university context and to develop a corresponding questionnaire by means of established scientific procedures. An exploratory sequential mixed-methods design is applied in which qualitative and quantitative methods are combined. A valid and practicable measurement instrument ("UFair" University Fairness Questionnaire) will be developed and tested, and the relationship with various health outcomes will be examined. The UFair questionnaire will be made available free of charge to other researchers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raphael M. Herr
- Department of Medical Informatics, Biometry and Epidemiology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Veronika M. Deyerl
- Department of Medical Informatics, Biometry and Epidemiology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | | | - Katharina Diehl
- Department of Medical Informatics, Biometry and Epidemiology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
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Méndez-Rivero F, Pozo ÓJ, Julià M. Gender Differences in the Indirect Effect of Psychosocial Work Environment in the Association of Precarious Employment and Chronic Stress: A Cross-Sectional Mediation Analysis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:16073. [PMID: 36498147 PMCID: PMC9736292 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192316073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Gender differences in the association between precarious employment and chronic stress have been found but the mechanisms underlying this relationship have not been explored. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the mediating effects of psychosocial risk factors at work (i.e., demands, control, and support) and work-life conflicts in the relationship between precarious employment and chronic stress as measured through the production of steroid hormones (both adrenal and gonadal) for men and women separately. Cross-sectional data were derived from a sample of workers from Barcelona (n = 125-255 men; 130 women). A set of 23 markers were determined from hair samples to evaluate the production of both adrenal and gonadal steroids. Decomposition analyses were applied to estimate the indirect effects of psychosocial risk factors and work-life conflict using linear regression models. Gender differences in the association between precarious employment and steroids production were confirmed. Psychosocial risk factors and work-life conflicts had indirect effects only among women (βCortisol = 0.18; 95% CI: 0.04-0.32; βCortisol/Cortisone 0.19; 95% CI: 0.08-0.31; β%Cortisol 0.12; 95% CI: 0.05-0.20). Gender differences suggest that the physiological response to precarious employment could be determined by the social construction of gender identities, as well as by positions and roles in the labour market and family. Future studies should delve further into these differences to improve employment and working policies, thus mitigating gender inequalities in the labour market to prevent work-related stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrizio Méndez-Rivero
- Research Group on Health Inequalities, Environment, and Employment Conditions (GREDS-EMCONET), Department of Political and Social Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, 08005 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Óscar J. Pozo
- Applied Metabolomics Research Group, IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), 08003 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mireia Julià
- Research Group on Health Inequalities, Environment, and Employment Conditions (GREDS-EMCONET), Department of Political and Social Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, 08005 Barcelona, Spain
- ESIMar (Mar Nursing School), Parc de Salut Mar, Universitat Pompeu Fabra-Affiliated, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
- SDHEd (Social Determinants and Health Education Research Group), IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), 08003 Barcelona, Spain
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Susanne A, Aileen B, Helen O, Susanne G, Anne-Marie B. Individual and organisational factors in the psychosocial work environment are associated with home care staffs' job strain: a Swedish cross-sectional study. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:1418. [PMID: 36434716 PMCID: PMC9701045 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-08699-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Home care staff (HCS) provide essential service to enable older adults to age in place. However, unreasonable demands in the work environment to deliver a safe, effective service with high quality has a negative impact on the individual employee's well-being and the care provided to the older adults. The psychosocial work environment is associated with employees´ well-being, although, knowledge regarding which individual and organisational factors that contribute to job strain for HCS is limited. These factors need to be identified to develop targeted interventions and create sustainable work situations for HCS. This study aimed to explore how HCS´s perceived job strain is associated with, and to what extent can be explained by, individual and organisational factors of the psychosocial work environment and psychosomatic health. METHOD An explorative cross-sectional questionnaire survey design was used in a large Swedish county. Five home care agencies with a total of 481 HCS were asked to respond to a questionnaire regarding their perceived level of job strain (Strain in Dementia Care Scale), psychosocial work environment (QPSNordic34+), and psychosomatic health (Satisfaction with Work Questionnaire). Multiple linear regression (MLR) analyses were conducted to explore the association between job strain and individual and organisational factors. RESULTS In total, 226 (46%) HCS responded to the questionnaire. Both individual and organisational factors were significant predictors of job strain and explained a variance ranging between 39 to 51% (p = 0.001). The organisational factor job demand and the individual factor feeling worried and restless was most frequently represented in these MRL models. A higher job strain was also associated with adverse outcomes regarding leadership, organisational culture and climate, and control at work. CONCLUSION This study indicates that there is an intertwined complexity of individual and organisational factors that are associated with the HCS´s perception of job strain. Implementation of new multidimensional work strategies, such as a reablement approach, could support the development of efficient strategies for HCS and reduce the level of job strain. Policy changes for the provision of home care are also needed to support the development of a sustainable and healthy psychosocial work environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Assander Susanne
- grid.4714.60000 0004 1937 0626Department of Neurobiology, Caring Sciences and Society, Division of Occupational Therapy, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Bergström Aileen
- grid.4714.60000 0004 1937 0626Department of Neurobiology, Caring Sciences and Society, Division of Occupational Therapy, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Olt Helen
- grid.4714.60000 0004 1937 0626Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Division of Nursing, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Guidetti Susanne
- grid.4714.60000 0004 1937 0626Department of Neurobiology, Caring Sciences and Society, Division of Occupational Therapy, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden ,grid.24381.3c0000 0000 9241 5705Theme Women´S Health and Allied Health Professionals, Medical Unit Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Boström Anne-Marie
- grid.4714.60000 0004 1937 0626Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Division of Nursing, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden ,grid.24381.3c0000 0000 9241 5705Theme Inflammation and Aging, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden ,Research & Development Unit, Stockholms Sjukhem, Stockholm, Sweden
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Omichi C, Kaminishi Y, Kadotani H, Sumi Y, Ubara A, Nishikawa K, Matsuda A, Ozeki Y. Limited social support is associated with depression, anxiety, and insomnia in a Japanese working population. Front Public Health 2022; 10:981592. [PMID: 36483246 PMCID: PMC9724020 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.981592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Lack of social support is associated with depression, anxiety, and insomnia. This study aimed to determine the source of support related to depression, anxiety, and insomnia among Japanese workers. Methods As part of a cohort study, we conducted a questionnaire survey among city government employees in Koka City, Shiga Prefecture, Japan, from September 2021 to March 2022. We used the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), and Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) to assess depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms, and insomnia, respectively. We used the Brief Job Stress Questionnaire (BJSQ) to assess job stressors and social support (from supervisors, colleagues, and family). Results A total of 1,852 Japanese employees (38.4% male, 45.9 ± 12.9 years) participated in the survey, with 15.5, 10.8, and 8.2% of the participants having depressive symptoms (PHQ-9 ≥ 10), anxiety symptoms (GAD-7 ≥ 10), and insomnia (ISI ≥ 15), respectively. The logistic regression analysis suggested that job stressors were associated with depressive symptoms (p < 0.001), anxiety symptoms (p < 0.001), and insomnia (p = 0.009). In contrast, support from co-workers (p = 0.016) and family members (p = 0.001) was associated with decreased depressive symptoms. Support from family members was associated with decreased insomnia (p = 0.005). Conclusion Social support from co-workers and family may be associated with reduced depressive symptoms, and family support may be associated with reduced insomnia in the Japanese working population. Clinical trial registration https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03276585.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chie Omichi
- Department of Psychiatry, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
- Department of Hygiene and Public Health, Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Takatsuki, Japan
| | - Yuki Kaminishi
- Department of Psychiatry, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Kadotani
- Department of Psychiatry, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Yukiyoshi Sumi
- Department of Psychiatry, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Ayaka Ubara
- Department of Psychiatry, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
- International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Kohei Nishikawa
- Department of Psychiatry, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
- Japan CBT Center, Hikone, Japan
| | - Arichika Matsuda
- Department of Psychiatry, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Yuji Ozeki
- Department of Psychiatry, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
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Factors associated with depressive symptoms among workers employed in Japanese eldercare institutions: a cross-sectional study based on the Job Demand–Control–Support Model. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s12144-022-03971-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Korban Z, Taraszkiewicz-Łyda M. The Impact of Time Pressure on the Results of Psychotechnical Tests Based on the Findings of Pilot Studies Conducted on a Group of Students of the Silesian University of Technology-A Case Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:14724. [PMID: 36429440 PMCID: PMC9689983 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192214724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The performance of job tasks is increasingly being viewed through the prism of time constraints. Stress, as a consequence of these constraints, can play a dual role: motivating or destructive. This paper addresses the role of time pressure during the implementation of psychotechnical tests. Based on the example of a pilot group, which consisted of students of the Faculty of Mining, Safety Engineering, and Industrial Automation of the Silesian University of Technology, the authors presented the results of the study of the impact of time regime on the assessment of visuomotor coordination, psychomotor reaction time, the ability to focus attention, perceptual speed and accuracy, attention divisibility, and set-shifting. With the use of a survey conducted among the subjects and multivariate analysis (the Analytic Hierarchy Process method), an assessment was made in terms of difficulty levels during the implementation of exercises, including four evaluation criteria: complexity, repetition and timing of emitted signals, and the required accuracy of response to the signals in question. In the process of verifying the consistency of the evaluations carried out, the consistency ratio (CR) was adopted.
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Association between working evening shifts and mental health among Korean employees: data from the 5th Korean Working Conditions Survey. Ann Occup Environ Med 2022; 34:e36. [PMID: 36544885 PMCID: PMC9748216 DOI: 10.35371/aoem.2022.34.e36] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Many studies have been conducted to investigate the harmful effect of shift work on physical and mental health. Although, by definition, "working evening shift" is included in the scope of shift work, most related studies conducted thus far have focused on working night shifts, overtime work, or different types of shift work, with little research effort dedicated to "working evening shifts." Therefore, to fill this research gap, we investigated the effect of working evening shifts on workers' mental health. Methods The participants of this study were 16,692 employees of the 50,205 that participated in the 5th wave of the Korean Working Conditions Survey. We performed χ2 test and logistic regression analysis to analyze the effects of independent variables on health problems and calculated odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results In the logistic regression analysis adjusted for sociodemographic characteristics, health-related factors, and work-related characteristics, employees who worked evening shifts showed higher levels of depression and anxiety compared to those that did not. In particular, the adjusted odds ratios of the group working evening shifts between one and nine times a month were the highest with 2.723 (95% CI: 2.014-3.682) for depression, 3.294 (95% CI: 2.547-4.259) for anxiety. Conclusions The results of our study suggest that working evening shifts has a negative effect on employees' mental health. This trend decreased with an increase in the monthly frequency of evening work.
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Inagaki K, Ohta Y. Capacity of Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response on the Reduction of Mental Stress. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:14577. [PMID: 36361455 PMCID: PMC9658167 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192114577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
In a social environment, various types of stress can be overwhelming. Humans frequently encounter these stressful situations in social life. Stress is divided into physical stress and mental stress; the latter is induced by heavy mental workloads and has become a huge social problem, leading to mental disorders and possibly suicide in the worst scenario. Investigations into monitoring mental stress and reducing stressful conditions are, therefore, important for its prevention. In the present study, we focused on autonomous sensory meridian response (ASMR) sound, which is known to improve the human mental condition through its comforting and relaxing effects. We investigated the effect of ASMR on the mental workload induced by mental tasks by the evaluation of EEG activation patterns in normal subjects. Our results showed a significant decrease in alpha-band activity and a significant increase in gamma (high beta)-band activity under the induction of mental workload by mental tasks compared to the resting condition. When applying ASMR sound, alpha- and gamma-band activity under the induction of mental workload by mental tasks was restored to the level of the resting condition. In conclusion, these results indicate that ASMR sound reduces the mental stress induced by mental workload.
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Dou G, Li G, Yuan Y, Liu B, Yang L. Structural Dimension Exploration and Measurement Scale Development of Employee Involution in China's Workplace Field. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:14454. [PMID: 36361331 PMCID: PMC9655169 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192114454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 10/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The phenomenon of workplace involution has attracted ample attention. How to make employees treat their work with the correct attitude and behavior and improve their work performance has become a realistic proposition. This study uses a combination of qualitative and quantitative research methods, with the help of grounded theory, to conduct an exploratory study on the structural dimensions of employee involution in the Chinese workplace and, on this basis, to develop and test the measurement scale. The research results show that employee involution is a multi-dimensional construct with rich connotations, including four dimensions: inefficient busyness, exhaustion of innovation, promotion anxiety, and internal competition. The measurement scale consists of four factors and 13 items. The factor analysis results showed that the developed scale's reliability and validity reached an ideal level. To a certain extent, this study promotes the recognition and attention of various types of organizations at all levels to involution. The research conclusions provide theoretical guidance for employees to get rid of the involution crisis and will motivate managers to formulate better intervention measures to prevent and reduce workplace involution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guoqin Dou
- School of Information Engineering, Fuyang Normal University, Fuyang 236037, China
| | - Guangxia Li
- School of Economics, Fuyang Normal University, Fuyang 236037, China
| | - Yunyun Yuan
- School of Management and Economics, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100000, China
| | - Bin Liu
- School of Business, Fuyang Normal University, Fuyang 236037, China
| | - Lifeng Yang
- School of Economics, Fuyang Normal University, Fuyang 236037, China
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Tiagi R. The impact of COVID-19 on relative health outcomes among healthcare workers in Canada. Healthc Manage Forum 2022; 35:349-355. [PMID: 35830293 PMCID: PMC9280119 DOI: 10.1177/08404704221112288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Although the COVID-19 pandemic increased stress and anxiety for most people, frontline workers have been particularly vulnerable. This article focuses on doctors and nurses and analyzes their perceived mental and life stress relative to allied healthcare workers. The study uses data from Statistics Canada's crowdsource initiative, analyzed within a multinomial logistic regression framework. Results point to increased stress among these workers. More specifically, results suggest that compared with pre-COVID-19, mental stress increased for doctors. In contrast, although mental stress did not increase for nurses, it remained poor, similar to that experienced pre-COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raaj Tiagi
- Vancouver Community College, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Villarreal-Zegarra D, Lázaro-Illatopa WI, Castillo-Blanco R, Cabieses B, Blukacz A, Bellido-Boza L, Mezones-Holguin E. Relationship between job satisfaction, burnout syndrome and depressive symptoms in physicians: a cross-sectional study based on the employment demand-control model using structural equation modelling. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e057888. [PMID: 36261241 PMCID: PMC9582405 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-057888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the relationship between job satisfaction, burnout syndrome (BS) and depressive symptoms (DS) based on the job demand-control framework model on a nationally representative sample of physicians working in the Peruvian Health System. SETTING We carried out a secondary data analysis of the National Survey of Satisfaction of Users in Health 2016 in Peru. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES Our study assessed the development of the predictive model and had two parts: (1) to evaluate the association among the variables based on the job demand-control framework, and (2) to assess the proposed model acceptability using the structural equation modelling approach to estimate goodness-of-fit indices (GOFIs). PARTICIPANTS We excluded physicians older than 65 years, who did not report income levels or who had missing data related to the workplace. Thus, we analysed 2100 participants. RESULTS The prevalence of DS was 3.3%. Physicians' work-related illnesses had more probability to result in DS (prevalence ratio=2.23). DS was moderately related to BS dimensions (r>0.50); nevertheless, the relationships between DS and the three job satisfaction scales were weak (r<0.30). The first predictive model based on the variables, DS, BS and job satisfaction, had low GOFIs (comparative fit index (CFI)=0.883; root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA)=0.125). In a second evaluation, we used models with correlated errors obtaining optimal GOFIs (CFI=0.974; RMSEA=0.060). CONCLUSIONS Our study identified a stable model to explain the relationship between job satisfaction, BS and DS among physicians. The results are consistent with the job demand-control framework. They could be applied to decision-making in occupational contexts in Latin American low/middle-income countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Villarreal-Zegarra
- Escuela de Medicina, Universidad César Vallejo, Trujillo, Peru
- Instituto Peruano de Orientación Psicológica, Lima, Lima, Peru
| | | | - Ronald Castillo-Blanco
- Departamento de Gestión del Aprendizaje y Aseguramiento de la Calidad, Universidad del Pacífico, Lima, Peru
| | - Baltica Cabieses
- Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana, Instituto de Ciencias e Innovación en Medicina (ICIM), Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago de Chile, Chile
| | - Alice Blukacz
- Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana, Instituto de Ciencias e Innovación en Medicina (ICIM), Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago de Chile, Chile
| | - Luciana Bellido-Boza
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Peruana de Ciencias Aplicadas, Lima, Peru
| | - Edward Mezones-Holguin
- Centro de Excelencia en Investigaciones Económicas y Sociales en Salud, Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola, Lima, Peru
- Epi-gnosis Solutions, Piura, Peru
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Magnavita N, Chiorri C, Karimi L, Karanika-Murray M. The Impact of Quality of Work Organization on Distress and Absenteeism among Healthcare Workers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:13458. [PMID: 36294034 PMCID: PMC9603159 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192013458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The quality of work organization may be responsible not only for reduced productivity but also for an increased risk of mental and physical disorders. This study was aimed at testing this hypothesis. Workers of a local health unit in Italy were asked to fill out the Work Organization Assessment Questionnaire (WOAQ) during their periodic medical examinations in the second half of 2018. On the same occasion, they also completed the Demand/Control/Support (DCS) measure of job strain, the Effort/Reward Imbalance (ERI) questionnaire, and the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ12) to assess psychological health. A total of 345 workers (85.8%) completed the survey. Linear regression analysis showed that the quality of work organization was inversely proportional to psychological health problems (p < 0.001). Occupational stress, measured both by job strain and ERI, was a moderating factor in this relationship. The relationship between the WOAQ and psychological health, moderated by job strain or ERI, remained highly significant even after adjustment for sex, age, social support, and overcommitment. Regression models explained over 40% of the shared variance of the association between quality of work organization and psychological health. The quality of work organization significantly predicted the risk of sickness absence for musculoskeletal disorders (OR = 0.984, CI95% 0.972-0.996) and for other health problems (OR = 0.977, CI95% 0.967-0.988). A continuous improvement of work organization must consider not only the clients' or production needs but also the well-being of workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Magnavita
- Postgraduate School of Occupational Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Department of Woman, Child & Public Health Sciences, Fondazione A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Chiorri
- Department of Educational Sciences, University of Genova, 16126 Genova, Italy
| | - Leila Karimi
- School of Applied Health, Psychology Department, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
- School of Medicine and Healthcare Management, Caucasus University, Tbilisi 0141, Georgia
| | - Maria Karanika-Murray
- Department of Psychology, Nottingham Trent University, 50 Shakespeare Street, Nottingham NG1 4FQ, UK
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Clausen T, Christensen KB, Sørensen JK, Bjorner JB, Madsen IEH, Borg V, Rugulies R. The Predictive Validity of the Danish Psychosocial Work Environment Questionnaire With Regard to Onset of Depressive Disorders and Long-Term Sickness Absence. Ann Work Expo Health 2022; 67:195-207. [PMID: 36242547 PMCID: PMC9923041 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxac069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate the predictive validity of 32 measures of the Danish Psychosocial Work Environment Questionnaire (DPQ) against two criteria variables: onset of depressive disorders and long-term sickness absence (LTSA). METHODS The DPQ was sent to 8958 employed individuals in 14 job groups of which 4340 responded (response rate: 48.4%). Depressive disorders were measured by self-report with a 6-month follow-up. LTSA was measured with a 1-year follow-up in a national register. We analyzed onset of depressive disorders at follow-up using logistic regression models, adjusted for age, sex, and job group, while excluding respondents with depressive disorders at baseline. We analyzed onset of LTSA with Cox regression models, adjusted for age, sex, and job group, while excluding respondents with previous LTSA. RESULTS The general pattern of the results followed our hypotheses as high job demands, poorly organized working conditions, poor relations to colleagues and superiors, and negative reactions to the work situation predicted onset of depressive disorders at follow-up and onset of LTSA during follow-up. Analyzing onset of depressive disorders and onset of LTSA, we found risk estimates that deviated from unity in most of the investigated associations. Overall, we found higher risk estimates when analyzing onset of depressive disorders compared with onset of LTSA. CONCLUSIONS The analyses provide support for the predictive validity of most DPQ-measures. Results suggest that the DPQ constitutes a useful tool for identifying risk factors for depression and LTSA in the psychosocial work environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Clausen
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed. National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersoe Parkalle 105, DK-2100, Copenhagen, Denmark. Tel: +45-39165368; fax: +45-39165201; e-mail:
| | | | | | - Jakob B Bjorner
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark,Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark,Optum Patient Insights, Johnston, RI, USA
| | - Ida E H Madsen
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Vilhelm Borg
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Reiner Rugulies
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark,Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Skov SS, Andersen JR, Lauridsen S, Bab M, Bundsbæk M, Nielsen MBD. Designing a conversational agent to promote teamwork and collaborative practices using design thinking: An explorative study on user experiences. Front Psychol 2022; 13:903715. [PMID: 36304869 PMCID: PMC9593076 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.903715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Appearance, voice features, and communication style affect users trust in conversational agents (chatbots), but few studies have assessed what features users like and dislike. Using design thinking, we developed Susa, a conversational agent, to help workplaces promote teamwork and collaborative practices. Design thinking prioritizes co-creation and multidisciplinary teamwork to develop innovative solutions to complex problems. The aim of this qualitative study was to explore users’ interactions with and reactions toward Susa and explain how we used user inputs to adapt and refine the first prototype. The employees and managers from four workplaces participated in three workshops to test and refine the agent. We applied an explorative thematic analysis of data collected via video recordings of the workshops. The results of the analyses revealed that visual identity, communication style and personality was important for acceptability. Users favored a more human like agent that primarily communicated with the team via text messages. Users disliked emoticons and humor because these features clashed with the seriousness of the topic. Finally, users highlighted that Susa helped structure organizational change processes, develop concrete action plans, and stay on track. It is a weakness that Susa is a simple robot based on a preprogrammed script that does not allow users to adapt the process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofie Smedegaard Skov
- National Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Sigurd Lauridsen
- National Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | | | - Maj Britt Dahl Nielsen
- National Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
- *Correspondence: Maj Britt Dahl Nielsen,
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Ersel RP, Pauli R, Gaum PM, Lang J. Sustainable return to work after depression - A comparative study among occupational physicians and affected employees. Front Public Health 2022; 10:946396. [PMID: 36276364 PMCID: PMC9583521 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.946396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The number of sick days taken from work due to depression is steadily rising. A successful return to work (RTW) is essential for sustainable reintegration. This study aims to identify factors to optimize RTW and to investigate approaches for sustainable RTW (sRTW) after depressive episodes. Methods Semi-structured expert interviews with senior occupational physicians (OPs, N = 5) served to develop two surveys among OPs (N = 180) and employees after depressive episode (N = 192). Predictors of RTW rating, workplace-based RTW interventions and sRTW interventions were analyzed using multiple hierarchical regression, chi-square difference and t-tests. Results For OPs, employee training on mental illness prevention was found to be the strongest predictor of overall RTW rating, whereas understanding and appreciation in conversations and stigmatization were strongest predictors of overall RTW rating by the employees. Compared to the employees, OPs reported significantly more availability of workplace-based interventions. To prevent relapse, the employees prioritized sufficient time and financial security during the RTW process more than OPs. Conclusions The study identified facilitating and hindering factors that can inform further research and practice to improve RTW after depressive episodes. To redress the awareness gap about the availability of workplace-based interventions, regular contact between OPs and employees is crucial. Several factors were considered to be of varying importance for relapse prevention by the two groups. Multiple perceptions and needs ought to be taken into account during RTW.
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Genrich M, Angerer P, Worringer B, Gündel H, Kröner F, Müller A. Managers' Action-Guiding Mental Models towards Mental Health-Related Organizational Interventions-A Systematic Review of Qualitative Studies. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:12610. [PMID: 36231909 PMCID: PMC9566424 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191912610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Research indicates that managers' active support is essential for the successful implementation of mental health-related organizational interventions. However, there is currently little insight into what subjective beliefs and perceptions (=mental models) make leaders support such interventions. To our knowledge, this is the first qualitative systematic review of this specific topic, and it considers 17 qualitative studies of managers' perspective. Based on the theory of planned behavior, this review provides an overview of three action-guiding factors (attitudes, organizational norms and behavioral control) that can serve as starting points for engaging managers in the implementation of mental health-related measures and ensuring their success. Our results provide evidence that supportive organizational norms may particularly help to create a common sense of responsibility among managers and foster their perceived controllability with respect to changing working conditions. Our study thus contributes to a more differentiated understanding of managers' mental models of health-related organizational interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Genrich
- Institute of Psychology, Work & Organizational Psychology, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45141 Essen, Germany
| | - Peter Angerer
- Institute for Occupational, Social & Environmental Medicine, Centre for Health and Society, Medical Faculty, Düsseldorf University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Britta Worringer
- Institute for Occupational, Social & Environmental Medicine, Centre for Health and Society, Medical Faculty, Düsseldorf University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Harald Gündel
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Ulm University Medical Center, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Friedrich Kröner
- Institute of Psychology, Work & Organizational Psychology, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45141 Essen, Germany
| | - Andreas Müller
- Institute of Psychology, Work & Organizational Psychology, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45141 Essen, Germany
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