Occupational and lifestyle associations with mental health of healthcare workers

Mental disorders are a leading cause of morbidity worldwide, and healthcare professionals are particularly vulnerable due to occupational stressors, a vulnerability intensified during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. This study assessed the prevalence of mental health disorders among hospital workers and examined changes in their perceived mental health during the pandemic. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted with 215 employees attending the Health Surveillance Service of Virgen Macarena University Hospital (Seville) between January 2019 and December 2022. Data were collected from occupational health records and a telephone survey, including the General Health Questionnaire (12 items) questionnaire. The prevalence of diagnosed mental health disorders was 7.0%, with mixed anxiety-depressive disorder being the most frequent. Most affected workers required short-term temporary incapacity due to common contingencies, and 36.7% required job adaptations, mainly involving task modifications. During the pandemic, 68.1% of workers reported a perceived worsening in mental health, which was more common among alcohol users. Among those receiving treatment, 70.8% required medication adjustments, and 31.2% reported increased analgesic use. Although prevalence rates were lower than expected, likely due to underdiagnosis and prioritization of coronavirus disease 2019-sensitive evaluations, the profile of affected workers was consistent with previous literature, predominantly women around 50 years old, often Assistant Nursing Care Technicians. These findings highlight the crucial role of occupational health services in early detection, monitoring, and support of healthcare professionals. Identification of alcohol use, psychiatric medication adjustments, and increased analgesic intake as risk factors emphasize the need for proactive interventions to sustain the healthcare workforce.