A cross-sectional analysis of the association between depressive symptoms and sleep problems among artisanal miners in Ghana

Sleep problems are common among small-scale artisanal miners, yet their psychological and occupational determinants remain poorly understood. This study examines the association between depression and sleep problems in artisanal miners and explores the mediating roles of anxiety and work-related stress. We analyzed cross-sectional data from 664 artisanal miners. Sleep problems were assessed with two items measured on a 5-point scale. Depression symptoms were measured using the PHQ-9 scale. Multivariable linear regression and bootstrapped mediation models were employed to assess associations. The mean±SD age was 28.8±8.2 years; males= 84.3%). Depression was positively associated with sleep problems (β=0.393, SE=0.024, p<.001). This association remained significant after full adjustment for sociodemographic and health-related factors (β=0.135, SE=0.033, p=.006). Depression episodes were linked to difficulties initiating sleep (β=0.201, SE=0.016, p<.001) and daytime fatigue (β=0.268, SE=0.017, p<.001). Mediation analysis showed that anxiety (59.9%) and work-related stress (19.0%) partially explained the depression-sleep problem association. However, self-rated health did not reach statistical significance. Depression is a key determinant of sleep problems among artisanal miners, with anxiety and work-related stress serving as critical pathways. Addressing mental health and occupational stressors may improve sleep quality in this vulnerable population. • Depression significantly increases sleep problems among artisanal miners in Ghana. • Anxiety mediates 59.9% of the depression-sleep problems link in artisanal miners. • Work-related stress accounts for 19% of the depression-sleep problem link. • Depression is linked to difficulties initiating sleep and increased daytime fatigue. • Addressing mental health can improve sleep quality in artisanal mining communities.