Work-related mental disorders: the interface between occupational factors and alcohol and other drug misuse.

Introduction: Work-related mental disorders comprise conditions of psychological distress in which causal factors are associated with elements of the work environment. These disorders impose substantial economic and social burdens on affected workers and are frequently associated with alcohol consumption and the use of other psychoactive substances. Objectives: To conduct an epidemiological analysis of reported cases of work-related mental disorders in Brazil between 2012 and 2021, investigating their association with alcohol and other drug misuse. Methods: This analytical, quantitative study was based on notification data obtained from the Department of Informatics of the Brazilian Unified Health System. Sociodemographic characteristics, work-related conditions, and information on alcohol consumption and the use of other drugs were collected. Data were analyzed using statistical tests and multivariate analytical techniques. Results: Work-related mental disorders predominantly affected women, individuals with higher educational attainment, and those who self-identified as White or Brown. Alcohol consumption and the use of other drugs showed limited statistical significance as factors associated with the reported cases. Conclusions: Strategies aimed at improving working conditions, expanding access to psychological support, and preventing substance misuse are essential to address work-related mental disorders, a major public health concern in Brazil. Identifying risk factors associated with these disorders may inform more effective interventions and promote improved work organization, thereby reducing their impact on the health of the working population and on the national economy.