Perceived Workplace Health Support and Severe Psychological Distress Among Japanese Workers

Abstract

Objective This study aimed to assess the extent to which the intensity of perceived workplace health support (PWHS) affected the incidence of psychological distress. Methods At the baseline, data from 4540 eligible participants throughout Japan were obtained using an Internet survey. Among them, 2362 participants who could be followed up 1 year after the initial study were included in the analysis. The intensity of PWHS was determined using an original questionnaire. Psychological distress was assessed using the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale. Results Participants with high PWHS were less likely to experience severe psychological distress than those with low PWHS even after adjusting for confounding factors including work-related factors. The incidence of severe psychological distress decreased as the intensity of PWHS increased. Conclusions Enhanced PWHS reduced psychological distress and positively affected workers’ mental health.