Shift Work and Mental Health Among Radiologic Technologists

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Psychiatry
• Radiologic Technology

Background:

• Shift work and weekend shifts are common in radiologic technology.
• Mental health conditions like depression and anxiety can affect healthcare professionals.
• Understanding the impact of work schedules on mental well-being is crucial for this population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the relationship between mental health (depression, anxiety) and shift work, weekend shifts, and on-call duties among radiologic technologists.
• To identify coping mechanisms utilized by radiologic technologists for managing depression and anxiety.

Main Methods:

• Validated instruments measured depression and anxiety levels in radiologic technologists.
• Participants reported their work shift, weekend work frequency, and on-call frequency.
• Survey responses from 173 participants were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Most radiologic technologists reported mild depression (35.8%) and anxiety (32.9%).
• Nearly half found depression and anxiety hindered job performance; one-third linked symptoms to shift work.
• A significant association was found between weekend shift frequency and depression levels (P < .001).
• No significant differences in depression or anxiety scores were found related to general shift work (P = .06, P = .28).

Conclusions:

• Radiologic technologists experience work-related depression and anxiety, especially with weekend shifts, affecting performance.
• Personal coping strategies like social support and prayer were common; employer resources were underutilized, potentially due to stigma.
• Increased awareness and acceptance of mental health support are needed within the profession.