Prevalence and severity of depression among heavy goods vehicle drivers in Ghana

Depression are common among heavy goods vehicle (HGV) drivers due to occupational stressors. This study examined the prevalence and risk factors of depression among HGV drivers in Ghana. A cross-sectional survey involving 1575 HGV drivers was conducted. Depression was measured using the PHQ-9, and predictors were identified through hierarchical binary logistic regression analysis. Jamovi statistical software version 2.6.17 was used for the analysis. The study found that 75.9% of drivers exhibited some level of depression, with 28.3% reporting mild symptoms, 32.7% moderate symptoms, and 14.9% severe symptoms. In the final model, risk factors of depression among HGV drivers included being overweight or obese, lack of regular exercise, lone driving, and irregular shift work. Drivers with job insecurity, low supervisor support, low skill discretion, and low decision autonomy were also more likely to report depression. Drivers who were not using smokeless tobacco and those with regular shift work had lower odds of depression. Surprisingly, low job demands were associated with higher depression. Variables such as age, education, daily driving hours, co-worker support, RTCs, and sleep problems did not have statistically significant association with depression in the multivariate analysis. Data from this study suggests that depression are highly prevalent among HGV drivers in Ghana, driven by both individual and occupational factors. These findings indicate the need for tailored mental health interventions and policy reforms to address workplace stressors and promote driver well-being in Ghana.