Day to Day and Environmental Risk Factors for Psychological Distress Among Healthcare Workers

Abstract

Objective Despite a growing literature on mental health among clinical staff during COVID-19, factors shaping distress for nonclinical staff are understudied and may be driven by inequalities at work. We aimed to discuss the role of workplace factors in shaping psychological distress for a diverse group of clinical, nonclinical, and other health and hospital workers (HHWs). Methods This convergent parallel mixed-methods study with HHWs in a US hospital system included an online survey (n = 1127) and interviews (n = 73) collected from August 2020 to January 2021. We thematically analyzed interviews; findings informed log binomial regression estimating risk factors for severe psychological distress (Patient Health Questionnaire - 4 item version [PHQ-4] scores of 9 or greater). Results Qualitatively, day-to-day stressors fostered fear and anxiety, and concerns about work environments manifest as betrayal and frustration with leadership. Distress was associated with burnout, financial concerns, and feeling betrayed or unsupported by the institution and leadership. Staff in service versus clinical roles had higher risk for severe distress (adjusted prevalence ratio = 2.04, 95% confidence interval = 1.13–2.66); HHWs receiving workplace mental health support had lower risk (adjusted prevalence ratio = 0.52, 95% confidence interval = 0.29–0.92. Conclusions Our mixed-methods study underscores how the pandemic brought inequalities to the surface to increase distress for vulnerable HHWs. Workplace mental health activities can support HHWs now and during future crises.