Abstract
Objectives: To assess the presence and level of common mental problems such as stress, anxiety, depression of health workers and to identify the main associated factors contributing to these mental problems.
Methods: Survey design: Adescriptive cross-sectional survey in 2016 and a qualitative research in 2018 were conducted at the Hospital of Tropical Diseases. Participants: managers and health workers who consent to participate.
Methodology: A scale about depression, anxiety and stress was self-administered by 601 health workers. In-depth semi-structured interview and focus group discussion were conducted with 33 managers, doctors and nurses.
Results: Among the 601 respondents and according to the moderate and severe level, the prevalence of depression, anxiety and stress was 28.4%, 38.8% and 18.9% respectively. Women had a higher risk of mental problems than men. There was no significant difference relating to other demographic profile such as profession, working years or age group. Fromthe33 respondents in the qualitative research, the main stressors were related with the working environment including the infrastructure, administrative policy and interpersonal relationship. Concerning the work life balance, health workers worry about the long distance from home to hospital and responsibility with their family.
Conclusion: This screening survey showed the presence of depression and anxiety in a number of health workers with associated factors related to working environment. The health staff needed a support from the hospital managers and the psychological/psychiatric experts to improve their mental health.
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