Prevalence of anxiety, stress, and depression among health care and nonhealth-care professionals in India

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The psychological impact of anxiety, stress, and depression among health care and nonhealth-care professionals in India contribute significantly to the global burden of mental illness in the world. Impaired mental health and stress influence the efficiency and productivity of work. Long-term professional stress among individuals can lead to chronic illness, increased blood pressure, and many systemic disorders. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of anxiety, stress, and depression among the health care and nonhealth-care professionals in India. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This prospective survey-based study included 200 study participants (80 nonhealth care and 120 health-care workers) who were asked to submit their feedback and opinion on a questionnaire survey. Depression, stress, and anxiety were scored as per patient health questionnaire-4 and UCLA scale. The reliability of questionnaires was assessed using the Cronbach's alpha (r = 0.90). The statistical analysis was done using the Chi-square test. RESULTS: Higher prevalence ratio of anxiety, depression, and stress was observed among nonhealth care compared to health-care professionals. CONCLUSION: Psychological disturbances were found to be higher among nonmedical when compared to health-care workers or professionals. Thus, psychological counseling is required to manage the stress levels in both health care and nonhealth-care professionals.