Factors associated with depression and anxiety among mental healthcare practitioners

Abstract

Background: Anxiety and depression constitute a significant global mental health burden. The extant literature indicates elevated rates of anxiety and depression among mental healthcare practitioners; however, this phenomenon remains understudied within this particular population.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using self-administered questionnaires. Participants voluntarily completed an anonymous socio-demographic questionnaire, the General Anxiety Disorder-7 scale and the Patient Health Questionnaire-9.

Results: The study included 255 participants from various occupational categories within mental health. High levels of anxiety (N = 56; 22%) and depression (N = 42; 16.5%) were found among mental healthcare practitioners. Participants with a prior history of anxiety and/or depression (21.2%) demonstrated a significant association with anxiety and depression at the time of completion of the questionnaire (p = 0.000).

Conclusion: Mental health practitioners with a previous history of anxiety and depression were at a substantially higher risk of experiencing current symptoms, highlighting the need for workplace support mechanisms tailored to this vulnerable group.

Contribution: This research identified a specific group of mental health practitioners at elevated risk for anxiety and depression that warrants targeted interventions through occupational assistance initiatives and preventative strategies.