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Bottaro R, De Giovanni K, Faraci P. The Extent to Which Technostress Is Related to Employees' Work-Life Fit: A Multilevel Meta-Analysis. Workplace Health Saf 2024:21650799241264317. [PMID: 39126189 DOI: 10.1177/21650799241264317] [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: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This multilevel meta-analytic review is designed to analyze and quantify the effect size of the association between technostress and work-life fit among employees. METHOD By adhering to the PRISMA 2020 Statement, seven databases (i.e., PubMed, PsycARTICLES, PsycINFO, the Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection, MEDLINE, Wiley Online Library, and Web of Science) were searched for studies reporting the association between technostress and work-life fit. RESULTS Out of the 476 articles that were screened, 7 met the established criteria and were subsequently included in this multilevel meta-analytic review. A majority of these studies highlighted the existence and intensity of the association between technostress and work-life fit, as evidenced by multiple Pearson's r. Our findings supported a medium association (Cohen's d = -0.41). Noteworthy differences were found when considering the interdependence of effect sizes within and between studies. CONCLUSION The results of this multilevel meta-analytic review underscore the significance of understanding this association to inform optimal choices in terms of welfare policies and organizational decisions that promote employee well-being. This knowledge may serve as a scientific foundation for viewing new technologies not merely as hurdles but also as potential resources.
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Perelman J, Serranheira F, Laires P. Teleworking: does it make workers healthier and productive? A cross-sectional study on a Southern European population. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1946. [PMID: 39033126 PMCID: PMC11264928 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-19481-y] [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: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Teleworking (TW) has recently shifted from a marginal into a common practice. Yet, concerns have been raised regarding potential work-health negative effects, related to the reduced socialization, and extended working hours with computers at home, possibly offset by reduced commuting time or better individual work-life balance. This paper aims at describing the influence of TW on health, well-being, and productivity perceptions, and how this is shaped by TW conditions. METHODS We collected data from workers of 25 companies that exert their activity in Portugal. Data were completed with a representative sample of workers who regularly participate in surveys (total N = 1,069). We applied an on-line questionnaire from September the 1st 2022 to December the 1st 2022. We performed a simple descriptive analysis of each variable. Then, we analyzed the relationship between TW conditions and self-reported health, and between TW conditions at home and productivity, using logistic regression models. RESULTS We observed a high prevalence of self-perceived health worsening (15.9%), mostly among those with poor TW conditions. Most teleworkers enjoyed favorable TW conditions, despite limited company support. Relevant changes were observed in lifestyle factors, towards more smoking (5.5%), alcohol drinking (4.5%), and worse diet (10.1%). Two thirds reported enhanced productivity. A statistically significant relationship was observed between inadequate TW conditions, health deterioration, and lower productivity. A 6.0% point (pp) increased risk of productivity worsening was observed when employees faced at least one inadequate condition at home (no private working place at home, inadequate heating, artificial light, or absence of well-being at home). The risk of health deterioration increased by 12.9 pp when facing at least one of these inadequate conditions, and by 6.3 under hybrid TW, compared to one or two days of TW. CONCLUSIONS Most teleworkers highlighted a positive perspective about teleworking. Yet, TW conditions are not favorable for all workers, with consequences on health, well-being, and productivity, suggesting that further support is needed for teleworkers to protect their health at home, and reach its maximum benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian Perelman
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Comprehensive Health Research Center, NOVA University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Florentino Serranheira
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Comprehensive Health Research Center, NOVA University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Pedro Laires
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Comprehensive Health Research Center, NOVA University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
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Matisāne L, Paegle DI, Paegle L, Akūlova L, Matisāne M, Vanadziņš I. Can Occupational Safety and Health Preventive Measures Taken by the Employer Influence Sleep Disturbances in Teleworkers? Results from the Quantitative Study on Working Life with COVID-19 in Latvia. Brain Sci 2024; 14:684. [PMID: 39061424 PMCID: PMC11275139 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci14070684] [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: 06/10/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
This research on sleep disturbances emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our study investigated the association between self-reported sleep disturbances among teleworkers and the preventive measures employers took to improve their working environment. Answers obtained via a web survey gathered from 1086 teleworkers (517 in the spring of 2021 and 569 in the spring of 2022) were analysed. The odds of self-reported sleep disturbances were significantly higher for all preventive measures in the group of respondents reporting a lack of a particular measure. The highest odds ratios were observed for the statement "My employer identified conditions where I am teleworking" (adjusted OR = 2.98, 95% CI 2.10-4.23) and "Online team-building events were organised" (adjusted OR = 2.85, 95% CI 1.88-4.35). The results of our study have revealed that workplace interventions that serve as a mediator for sleep disorders, even if they are not directly targeted at managing sleep disturbances or stress, can reduce the number of teleworkers reporting sleep disturbances. According to our knowledge, this is the first study reporting the effectiveness of employer interventions that help teleworkers manage their sleep disturbances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Matisāne
- Institute of Occupational Safety and Environmental Health, Rīga Stradiņš University, Dzirciema 16, LV-1007 Riga, Latvia; (D.I.P.); (L.P.); (L.A.); (M.M.); (I.V.)
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Rossi MF, Beccia F, Gualano MR, Moscato U. Quiet Quitting: The Need to Reframe a Growing Occupational Health Issue. SOCIAL WORK 2024; 69:313-315. [PMID: 38745382 DOI: 10.1093/sw/swae023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Francesca Rossi
- Maria Francesca Rossi, MD, is a medical doctor and PhD student, Section of Occupational Health, Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Flavia Beccia
- Flavia Beccia, MD, is a medical doctor and PhD student, Section of Hygiene, Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Umberto Moscato
- Umberto Moscato, MD, is head of department, Department of Occupational Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
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Figueiredo E, Margaça C, Hernández-Sánchez B, Sánchez-García JC. Teleworking Effects on Mental Health-A Systematic Review and a Research Agenda. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 21:243. [PMID: 38541245 PMCID: PMC10970114 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21030243] [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: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
Teleworking has become an increasingly adopted modality in organizations. However, changes in working conditions have led to several challenges regarding its impacts on professionals' health. The aim of this study is to provide a systematic review of the literature about the impact of teleworking on workers' mental health. The PRISMA protocol and VOSviewer were used to identify the main trends from the set of 64 articles. The co-occurrence analyzes showed combined relationships between this new type of work and its effects on workers' health, which resulted in four different clusters and a robust knowledge structure. Furthermore, the findings indicate that working from home has a dualistic nature. This study offers a prominent and promising framework regarding the teleworking impact on workers' health research agenda.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Figueiredo
- Department of Social Psychology and Anthropology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Salamanca, Avenida de la Merced, 109, 37005 Salamanca, Spain; (E.F.); (J.C.S.-G.)
| | - Clara Margaça
- Department of Social Psychology and Anthropology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Salamanca, Avenida de la Merced, 109, 37005 Salamanca, Spain; (E.F.); (J.C.S.-G.)
| | | | - José Carlos Sánchez-García
- Department of Social Psychology and Anthropology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Salamanca, Avenida de la Merced, 109, 37005 Salamanca, Spain; (E.F.); (J.C.S.-G.)
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Alonso MS, Lima MCP, Dias A, Camacho-Vega JC, García-Iglesias JJ, Ruiz-Frutos C, Bernardes JM, Gómez-Salgado J. Psychological distress among Brazilian workers during the initial stage of the COVID-19 pandemic: a descriptive study. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1283310. [PMID: 38439755 PMCID: PMC10910103 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1283310] [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: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Background COVID-19 pandemic imposed drastic and abrupt changes to working environment and organization and that might have caused additional negative effects on mental health. Thus, this study aimed to quantify and assess the severity of psychological distress experienced by Brazilian essential and nonessential workers during the first months of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods This descriptive study included 2,903 participants who answered an online questionnaire between April and May 2020. The research questionnaire was translated and culturally adapted to the Brazilian population from a questionnaire developed and validated for the Spanish population. Variables were analyzed using simple and cumulative percentage distributions and measures of central tendency and dispersion. The Wilson score interval was used to calculate confidence interval (CI) for the main outcome, psychological distress. Results It was observed a high prevalence (72.6%) of psychological distress among the study's participants. They also presented a median risk perception score of 60 (out of a maximum of 90), and their greatest concern was transmitting the virus to family members, close contacts or patients. Furthermore, it was found a lower sense of coherence and work engagement among the participants than those observed in previous studies conducted in other countries. Conclusion Almost three quarters of the study's participants were classified as presenting psychological distress. Thus, it is imperative to provide mental health remotely delivered interventions to workers during public health events that require prolonged social distancing measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Spröesser Alonso
- Public/Collective Health Graduate Program, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Maria Cristina Pereira Lima
- Public/Collective Health Graduate Program, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Adriano Dias
- Public/Collective Health Graduate Program, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Juan Carlos Camacho-Vega
- Department of Architectural Construction II, Higher Technical School of Building Engineering, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
| | - Juan Jesus García-Iglesias
- Faculty of Labour Sciences, Department of Sociology, Social Work, and Public Health, University of Huelva, Huelva, Spain
| | - Carlos Ruiz-Frutos
- Faculty of Labour Sciences, Department of Sociology, Social Work, and Public Health, University of Huelva, Huelva, Spain
- Safety and Health Postgraduate Programme, Universidad Espíritu Santo, Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | - João Marcos Bernardes
- Public/Collective Health Graduate Program, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Juan Gómez-Salgado
- Faculty of Labour Sciences, Department of Sociology, Social Work, and Public Health, University of Huelva, Huelva, Spain
- Safety and Health Postgraduate Programme, Universidad Espíritu Santo, Guayaquil, Ecuador
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Wechsler K, Griemsmann S, Weber B, Ellegast R. The impact of remote work using mobile information and communication technologies on physical health: a systematic review. ERGONOMICS 2024:1-18. [PMID: 38357908 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2024.2304582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Remote e-working with information and communication technology (ICT) has long been on the rise, with its implementation accelerated by mandatory working from home regulations during the COVID-19 pandemic. This systematic literature review summarises the influencing factors of ICT-based remote e-working (device types, duration of use, user interfaces, etc.) on the physical health (musculoskeletal system and eyes) of knowledge workers. A search in four electronic databases and a manual search in four German journals resulted in 21 articles being included in this review. A bias analysis was conducted for all articles. Unfavourable postures, inappropriate working devices and certain environmental factors may cause a range of physical complaints, even after comparably short periods of time. Mostly, these complaints are greater compared to those experienced when working on a fully equipped stationary computer. Therefore, remote e-working requires careful planning, awareness, and the willingness to embrace working situations that counteract these problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantin Wechsler
- Institute for Occupational Safety and Health of the German Social Accident Insurance, Sankt Augustin, Germany
| | - Stephanie Griemsmann
- Institute for Occupational Safety and Health of the German Social Accident Insurance, Sankt Augustin, Germany
| | - Britta Weber
- Institute for Occupational Safety and Health of the German Social Accident Insurance, Sankt Augustin, Germany
| | - Rolf Ellegast
- Institute for Occupational Safety and Health of the German Social Accident Insurance, Sankt Augustin, Germany
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Perego F, De Maria B, Parati M, Cassetti G, Gorini A, Bari V, Gelpi F, Porta A, Dalla Vecchia LA. Cardiac autonomic profile, perceived stress and environmental comfort in healthy employees during remote and in-office work. Sci Rep 2024; 14:3727. [PMID: 38355646 PMCID: PMC10867114 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-54283-7] [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: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Remote work (REMOTE) causes an overlap between working and domestic demands. The study of the cardiac autonomic profile (CAP) by means of heart rate variability (HRV) provides information about the impact of REMOTE on workers' health. The primary aim was to determine whether CAP, self-perceived stress, environmental and workstation comfort are modified during REMOTE. The secondary aim was to explore how these indices are influenced by individual and environmental work-related factors. Fifty healthy office employees alternating REMOTE and in-office (OFFICE) working were enrolled, rated self-perceived stress, environmental and workstation comfort using a visual analogue scale and performed a 24-h electrocardiogram during REMOTE and OFFICE. Stress was lower (5.6 ± 2.2 vs. 6.4 ± 1.8), environmental comfort higher (7.7 ± 1.9 vs. 7.0 ± 1.5), and the workstation comfort poorer (6.2 ± 1.8 vs. 7.5 ± 1.2) during REMOTE. CAP was similar during REMOTE and OFFICE. CAP was influenced by some work-related factors, including the presence of offspring, absence of a dedicated workspace during REMOTE and number of working hours. All these variables determined a decreased vagal modulation. The working setting seems to impact the levels of perceived stress and comfort, but not the CAP. However, individual and environmental work-related factors reduce cardiac vagal modulation during REMOTE, potentially increasing the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Perego
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Via Camaldoli 64, 20138, Milan, Italy
| | - Beatrice De Maria
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Via Camaldoli 64, 20138, Milan, Italy.
| | - Monica Parati
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Via Camaldoli 64, 20138, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Cassetti
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Via Camaldoli 64, 20138, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandra Gorini
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Via Camaldoli 64, 20138, Milan, Italy
- Dipartimento di Scienze Cliniche e di Comunità, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Della Commenda 19, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Vlasta Bari
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Via Mangiagalli 31, 20133, Milan, Italy
- Department of Cardiothoracic, Vascular Anesthesia and Intensive Care, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, Piazza Edmondo Malan 2, San Donato Milanese, 20097, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Gelpi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Via Mangiagalli 31, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Alberto Porta
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Via Mangiagalli 31, 20133, Milan, Italy
- Department of Cardiothoracic, Vascular Anesthesia and Intensive Care, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, Piazza Edmondo Malan 2, San Donato Milanese, 20097, Milan, Italy
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Maruf MA, Weng YH, Chiu YW, Chiou HY. Perceptions of COVID-19 during and after the Omicron outbreak among healthcare personnel in Indonesia. Front Public Health 2024; 11:1321045. [PMID: 38259792 PMCID: PMC10800601 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1321045] [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: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic occurred in several waves with different levels of seriousness. Healthcare personnel (HCP) constituted a high-risk population for COVID-19, necessitating monitoring of their knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) status and level of psychological distress. This study investigated differences in the impacts of COVID-19 during and after the Omicron outbreak among HCP in Indonesia. Methods An online structured questionnaire survey was distributed twice in selected hospitals of Indonesia: the first survey was between December 2021 and February 2022 (Omicron era) and the second between August and October 2022 (post-Omicron era). A multiple logistic regression model was used to determine the differences in KAP and psychological distress among HCP toward COVID-19 with demographic characteristics adjusted for. Results This study included 402 (Omicron era) and 584 (post-Omicron era) HCP members. Positive attitudes were more common in the Omicron era than in the post-Omicron era (p = 0.001). The availability of face shields and protective eyewear significantly decreased from 62.7 to 55.6% (p = 0.028). However, psychological distress among HCP significantly increased after the Omicron outbreak (p = 0.024). Multiple logistic regression analyses revealed a decrease of positive attitudes (OR = 0.626; 95% CI = 0.476-0.823) in the post-Omicron era. Conclusion Our data indicated a significant increase in psychological distress among HCP in the post-Omicron era. These findings suggest a need for greater focus on psychological distress among HCP in Indonesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Ainul Maruf
- Ph.D. Program in Global Health and Health Security, College of Public Health, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Yi-Hao Weng
- Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Wen Chiu
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Research Center for Global Health and Security, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Hung-Yi Chiou
- Ph.D. Program in Global Health and Health Security, College of Public Health, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Institute of Population Health Sciences, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan
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Galliker S, Igic I, Semmer NK, Elfering A. Stress at Work and Well-being Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A 1-Year Longitudinal Study in Switzerland. J Occup Environ Med 2024; 66:56-70. [PMID: 37853654 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000002995] [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: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the study is to analyze the development of conditions at work and health-related variables (notably exhaustion) in Switzerland longitudinally before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS Questionnaire data were collected from a population-based sample of 1,553 employees in February 2020 and 1 year later. Health and well-being associated with ( a ) working conditions in general and ( b ) COVID-19-specific predictors such as worries about being infected and conditions for working at home were analyzed using analysis of (co)variance and multiple regression. RESULTS Conditions at work and well-being were stable overall, even indicating slight improvements, notably for men compared with women. Both an index representing stressors and resources at work in general (Job Stress Index) and a COVID-19-related demand index showed consistent effects on health and the effect of COVID-19-related demands was stronger if the Job Stress Index deteriorated than when it improved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sibylle Galliker
- From the Institute of Psychology, Department of Work and Organizational Psychology, University of Bern, Switzerland (S.G., I.I., N.K.S., A.E.); Leadership and Communication Study, Military Academy, ETH Zurich, Switzerland (I.I.); and National Centre of Competence in Research, Affective Sciences, CISA, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland (N.K.S., A.E.)
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Wang S, Luo G, Pan D, Ding X, Yang F, Zhu L, Wang S, Ma X. Anxiety prevalence and associated factors among frontline nurses following the COVID-19 pandemic: a large-scale cross-sectional study. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1323303. [PMID: 38145071 PMCID: PMC10740197 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1323303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Nurses are more likely to experience anxiety following the coronavirus 2019 epidemic. Anxiety could compromise nurses' work efficiency and diminish their professional commitment. This study aims to investigate nurses' anxiety prevalence and related factors following the pandemic in multiple hospitals across China. Methods An online survey was conducted from April 16 to July 3, 2023, targeting frontline nurses who had actively participated in China. Anxiety and depression symptoms were assessed using the Self-rating Anxiety Scale and the Self-rating Depression Scale (SDS), respectively. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was employed to identify factors linked with anxiety. Results A total of 2,210 frontline nurses participated in the study. Overall, 65.07% of participants displayed clinically significant anxiety symptoms. Multivariable logistic regression revealed that nurses living with their families [2.52(95% CI: 1.68-3.77)] and those with higher SDS scores [1.26(95% CI: 1.24-1.29)] faced an elevated risk of anxiety. Conversely, female nurses [0.02(95% CI: 0.00-0.90)] and those who had recovered from infection [0.05(95%CI: 0.07-0.18)] demonstrated lower rates of anxiety. Discussion This study highlights the association between SDS score, gender, virus infection, living arrangements and anxiety. Frontline nurses need to be provided with emotional support to prevent anxiety. These insights can guide interventions to protect the mental well-being of frontline nurses in the post-pandemic period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shitao Wang
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Fuyang People's Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Fuyang, China
| | - Guoshuai Luo
- Laboratory of Biological Psychiatry, Institute of Mental Health, Tianjin Anding Hospital, Mental Health Center of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Dongsheng Pan
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - XiangQian Ding
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Fei Yang
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Liping Zhu
- Ya'an People's Hospital, Sichuan University, Yaan, China
| | - Shuo Wang
- Laboratory of Biological Psychiatry, Institute of Mental Health, Tianjin Anding Hospital, Mental Health Center of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xuelu Ma
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Fuyang People's Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Fuyang, China
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Bilodeau J, Quesnel-Vallée A, Poder T. Work stressors, work-family conflict, parents' depressive symptoms and perceived parental concern for their children's mental health during COVID-19 in Canada: a cross-sectional analysis. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:2181. [PMID: 37936129 PMCID: PMC10629015 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-17037-0] [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: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Work-related stressors and work-family conflict are important social determinants of mental health. While the impact of these stressors on parents' mental health is well documented, we know comparatively less about their impact on children's mental health. Furthermore, though the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly altered these stressors, particularly with the increase in teleworking, major knowledge gaps persist regarding the association between parents' stressors and perceived parental concern for their children's mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic. Based on the stress contagion perspective, this study tests (1) the mediating role of parents' depressive symptoms with parental concern for their children's mental health, and (2) whether these associations vary depending on whether parents had the opportunity to engage in telework. METHODS A path analysis was performed from a cross-sectional analytic sample of 780 employed parents in the province of Quebec (Canada). The same model was then stratified by teleworking opportunity. The model's indirect associations were obtained by the bootstrap bias-corrected method with 1,000 replications. RESULTS The results show that the stressors of work-to-family conflict, increased difficulties in work-family balance since the COVID-19 pandemic, irregular schedules, low esteem derived from work, and job insecurity were all indirectly associated with an increase in parental concern for their children's mental health through increased parents' depressive symptoms. However, some associations differ depending on teleworking status. The indirect associations involving increased difficulties in work-family balance since the COVID-19 pandemic as well as irregular work schedules were observed only in the teleworking group. CONCLUSIONS This study fills a gap in research on the association between the work-family interface and parental concern for their children's mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic. It highlights the importance of concerted and cohesive action between child health policies and those regarding work and work-family balance to prevent work-related psychosocial risks, particularly considering the post pandemic expanded and persistent reliance on teleworking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaunathan Bilodeau
- Department of Sociology, McGill University, 3460 McTavish Street, Montreal, QC, H3A 0E6, Canada.
| | - Amélie Quesnel-Vallée
- Department of Sociology, McGill University, 3460 McTavish Street, Montreal, QC, H3A 0E6, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Thomas Poder
- École de Santé Publique, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
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Wrede SJS, Claassen K, Rodil dos Anjos D, Kettschau JP, Broding HC. Impact of digital stress on negative emotions and physical complaints in the home office: a follow up study. Health Psychol Behav Med 2023; 11:2263068. [PMID: 37818414 PMCID: PMC10561583 DOI: 10.1080/21642850.2023.2263068] [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: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Due to the COVID-19 pandemic many employees perform under increasingly digital conditions. Enabling home office environments became mandatory for companies wherever possible in consideration of the ongoing pandemic. Simultaneously, studies reported on digital stress. The current literature lacks rigorous research into digital stress on psychosomatic outcomes, emotions, and disease. Therefore, we endeavor to understand how digital stress developed over the course of the pandemic and if it predicts differences in negative emotions and physical complaints in the home office setting. Methods To answer the research question, we conducted an online survey among 441 employees in 2020 and 398 employees in 2022 from three municipal administrations in Germany, who were working from home at least occasionally. We used a cluster analysis to detect digitally stressed employees. Regression analyses were performed on digital stress, negative emotions, and physical complaints. Results The analysis revealed an increase from 9 to 20% in digital stress, while negative emotions and physical complaints did not show evident differences. In the multivariate model, we observe a change in the proportion of digitally stressed employees between 4 and 17%, while the control variables explain around 9%. Conclusions Digital stress did not significantly affect either negative emotions or physical complaints. However, digital stress appeared to exert a more substantial predictive influence on negative emotions. The study emphasizes rising digital stress, which contradicts a positive adaption to the digital working conditions within the observed period. The psychosomatic relations are low or lagged. Further research investigating digital stress and countermeasures, especially to understand how to prevent harmful long-term effects such as distress resulting from working from home conditions, is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sammy J. S. Wrede
- Faculty of Health, Department of Human Medicine, Chair of Occupational Medicine and Corporate Health Management, Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany
| | - Kevin Claassen
- Faculty of Health, Department of Human Medicine, Chair of Occupational Medicine and Corporate Health Management, Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany
| | - Dominique Rodil dos Anjos
- Faculty of Health, Department of Human Medicine, Chair of Occupational Medicine and Corporate Health Management, Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany
| | - Jan P. Kettschau
- Faculty of Health, Department of Human Medicine, Chair of Occupational Medicine and Corporate Health Management, Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany
| | - Horst C. Broding
- Faculty of Health, Department of Human Medicine, Chair of Occupational Medicine and Corporate Health Management, Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany
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Sobczyk K, Holecki T, Rogalska A. The impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on indirect costs of mental illness and behavioral disorders in Poland. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1207389. [PMID: 37790719 PMCID: PMC10544582 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1207389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction In various research, the estimation of the disease's economic burden has been taken into consideration. But given the fact that different settings will have distinguished consequences, determining the economic burden of COVID-19 in the studied environment is of great importance. As a result, this study aimed to show the change in indirect costs of mental health problems due to the COVID-19 pandemic in Poland. Methods and Results Indirect costs related to mental health problems were analyzed from the perspective of the Social Insurance Institution in Poland. In 2021, they amounted to about 285.8 billion PLN (Polish currency) [61.1 billion EUR (European currency)], up 6% from the previous year. A large increase in spending on disability benefits was observed for 2019-2021 (+14.7%). Disease groups generating the highest expenditures in the structure of total expenditures on incapacity benefits in 2021 in Poland were mental health problems (16.7% of total expenditures). Expenditures on disability benefits related to mental health problems incurred by Social Security in 2021 amounted to about 7.42 billion PLN [1.6 billion EUR] and were 19.4% higher than in 2019 (before the pandemic). In the 2012-2019 period, there was a significant decrease in expenses related to inpatient rehabilitation (41.3%), while in 2020-2021, these expenses decreased several times as the epidemiological situation related to the COVID pandemic reduced access to such services. Discussion This is the first study on the economic burden of COVID-19 indirect costs in Poland. Calculating the economic impact is crucial, particularly when there is a large disease outbreak and countries are severely constrained by financial resources. Doing so could aid in the development of effective social security policies. As shown in this study, the indirect costs of absenteeism expenses due to mental health problems increased significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is necessary to take all possible measures, both in the field of primary and secondary prevention, to prevent disability and exclusion from the labor market of people affected by mental health problems, which is justified by epidemiological data and financial data on the expenses incurred by Social Security for social insurance benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Sobczyk
- Department of Economics and Health Care Management, Faculty of Public Health in Bytom, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, Katowice, Poland
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15
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Gualano MR, Buttigieg S, Moscato U. Editorial: Impact of digitalization on workers' health and work-life balance. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1204465. [PMID: 37283984 PMCID: PMC10240075 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1204465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Umberto Moscato
- Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
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16
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Agyapong B, Brett-MacLean P, Burback L, Agyapong VIO, Wei Y. Interventions to Reduce Stress and Burnout among Teachers: A Scoping Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:ijerph20095625. [PMID: 37174145 PMCID: PMC10178023 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20095625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Background: Teaching is recognized as a highly challenging profession. Experience of chronic stress is a risk factor for poor mental and physical well-being, and burnout. There is limited knowledge regarding optimal interventions to address stress and burnout among teachers. Objective: To undertake a scoping review of the literature in the last five years to determine various psychological interventions to address stress and burnout among teachers. Method: The PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews was followed. Relevant search terms were used to determine different interventions adopted to reduce teachers' stress and burnout. Articles published between 2018 and 2022 were identified using five bibliographic databases. Relevant articles were extracted, reviewed, collated, and thematically analyzed, and findings s were summarized. Results: Forty studies conducted in Asia, North America, Oceania, Europe, and Africa, met the inclusion criteria. Sixteen kinds of burnout and stress-reduction interventions were identified. The most popularly studied intervention were Mindfulness-Based Interventions alone or in combination with yoga or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), followed by Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT). Mindfulness-Based Interventions led to decreased overall Teacher Stress Inventory (TSI) and emotional exhaustion subscale scores. REBT, primarily used with special education teachers, especially in Africa, has also shown positive results. Other interventions reporting positive outcomes include Inquiry-Based Stress Reduction (IBSR), the Stress Management and Resiliency Training Program (SMART), Cyclic Meditation, Group Sandplay, Progressive Muscle Relaxation, Autogenic Training, Sport-Based Physical Activity, Emotional Intelligence Ability Models and Christian Prayer and Prayer-Reflection. Conclusions: Stress and burnout can have a negative impact on teachers and, very often, on the students they teach. Implementing suitable school-based interventions is necessary to improve teachers' stress-coping ability, reduce the likelihood of burnout and improve general well-being. Policymakers, governments, school boards and administrators should prioritize the implementation of school-based awareness and intervention programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belinda Agyapong
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2B7, Canada
| | | | - Lisa Burback
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2B7, Canada
| | - Vincent Israel Opoku Agyapong
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2B7, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 2E2, Canada
| | - Yifeng Wei
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2B7, Canada
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17
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Rossi MF, Gualano MR, Magnavita N, Moscato U, Santoro PE, Borrelli I. Coping with burnout and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on workers' mental health: A systematic review. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1139260. [PMID: 37009102 PMCID: PMC10060559 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1139260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic had a negative impact on the psychological wellbeing of workers worldwide. Certain coping styles may increase burnout risk. To investigate the relationship between burnout and coping styles, a systematic review was performed. Methods Following the PRISMA statements, three databases were screened up until October 2022, including research articles written in English language and investigating the relationship between burnout and coping strategies in workers. The quality of articles was assessed by the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Results The initial search resulted in 3,413 records, 15 of which were included in this review. Most studies were performed on healthcare workers (n = 13, 86.6%) and included a majority of female workers (n = 13, 86.7%). The most used burnout assessment questionnaire was the Maslach Burnout Inventory (n = 8, 53.3%), and the most used coping assessment tool was the Brief-COPE (n = 6, 40.0%). Task-related coping was a protective factor for burnout in all four studies investigating its correlation with burnout dimensions. Two of the four studies investigating emotion-oriented coping found that it was protective while the other two found that it was predictive of burnout. All five studies investigating avoidance-oriented coping and burnout dimensions found that this coping style was predictive of burnout. Discussion Task-oriented and adaptive coping were protective for burnout, avoidance-oriented, and maladaptive coping were predictive factors of burnout. Mixed results were highlighted concerning emotion-oriented coping, suggesting that different outcomes of this coping style may depend on gender, with women relying more on it than men. In conclusion, further research is needed to investigate the effect of coping styles in individuals, and how these correlates with their unique characteristics. Training workers about appropriate coping styles to adopt may be essential to enact prevention strategies to reduce burnout incidence in workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Francesca Rossi
- Section of Occupational Health, Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Rosaria Gualano
- School of Medicine, UniCamillus-Saint Camillus International University of Health Sciences, Rome, Italy
- Leadership in Medicine Research Center, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- Center for Global Health Research and Studies, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicola Magnavita
- Section of Occupational Health, Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Umberto Moscato
- Section of Occupational Health, Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Emilio Santoro
- Section of Occupational Health, Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Ivan Borrelli
- Section of Occupational Health, Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
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Matthews TA, Guardiano M, Omidakhsh N, Cushing L, Robbins W, Hong O, Li J. Associations of COVID-19 Related Work Stressors with Psychological Distress: Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Californian Workers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 20:144. [PMID: 36612463 PMCID: PMC9819092 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20010144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic continues to exert immense societal impacts, with recent data showing inequitable distribution of consequences among racial and ethnic groups. The objective of this study was to assess associations between COVID-related work stressors and psychological distress, with special emphasis on differences by race and ethnicity. Data were from the population-based California Health Interview Survey (CHIS) 2020. Associations of individual and cumulative work stressors, including job loss, reduced work hours, and working from home, with psychological distress in 12,113 workers were examined via multivariable linear regression, and stratified analyses were conducted for racial and ethnic subgroups. After adjustment for covariates, compared to workers with no work stressors, those who experienced either one or two/more work stressors had higher psychological distress (βs and 95% CIs were 0.80 [0.51, 1.09] and 1.98 [1.41, 2.56], respectively). Notably, experiencing cumulative (two/more) work stressors had much stronger effects on psychological distress among participants who were Black (β and 95% CI were 3.51 [1.09, 5.93]) or racial minorities (β and 95% CI were 3.57 [1.10, 6.05]). Occupational consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic were associated with increased psychological distress in Californian workers and inequitably distributed, with racial and ethnic minorities suffering the greatest burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy A. Matthews
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Megan Guardiano
- School of Nursing, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | | | - Lara Cushing
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Wendie Robbins
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- School of Nursing, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - OiSaeng Hong
- Occupational and Environmental Health Nursing Graduate Program, School of Nursing, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Jian Li
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- School of Nursing, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
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