Psychological Impact of Night Shifts: Prevalence of Depression, Anxiety, and Stress among Healthcare Workers in a Tertiary Care Hospital, Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Background: Night shift work in healthcare is associated with significant psychological and physiological strain, disrupting sleep-wake cycles and increasing the risk of mental health issues, including stress, anxiety, and depression. This study investigates the prevalence and contributing factors of mental health disorders among night shift healthcare workers in a private hospital in Chennai, India. Methods: A cross-sectional, hospital-based observational study was conducted from August to November 2024, targeting night shift workers, including doctors, nurses, lab technicians, and administrative staff. A sample size of 90 participants was selected using simple random sampling. Data was collected through structured interviews, using demographic and occupational data questionnaires and the DASS-21 scale for mental health assessment. Descriptive and analytical statistics were used for data analysis, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. Results: Of the 90 participants, the female: male ratio was 1:1.14 and the mean (SD) age was 32 (6.8) years. The prevalence of stress, anxiety, and depression were 26.7%, 33.3% and 26.7% respectively and varied across job roles, with doctors and nurses showing higher levels. Stress was significantly associated with age and job role, while anxiety was more prevalent in those with less night shift experience (1–2 years). Depression showed a similar trend. Smoking was associated with lower anxiety and depression levels. Conclusion: The study highlights the mental health challenges faced by night shift healthcare workers, particularly in high-stress roles. Addressing workplace stressors, enhancing support systems, and promoting mental health interventions are crucial for improving both worker well-being and patient care. Further research with a longitudinal design is recommended to explore causality.