US Workers' Self-Reported Mental Health Outcomes by Industry and Occupation
Aaron L Sussell1, Kristin Yeoman1, Carol T Nixon1
1Spokane Mining Research Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Spokane, Washington.
JAMA Network Open
|June 6, 2025
Summary
Work-related hazards impact mental health, with specific industries like retail and food services showing higher rates of depression and distress. Tailored prevention strategies are needed for vulnerable worker populations.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Mental Health Epidemiology
- Public Health Surveillance
Background:
- Work-related hazards and stress are linked to adverse mental health outcomes.
- Suicide rates among adult workers have been increasing since 2000.
- Understanding mental health variations across industries and occupations is crucial for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of diagnosed depression, frequent mental distress (FMD), extreme distress, and mentally unhealthy days (MUD) among workers.
- To determine if these mental health indicators vary by industry and occupation.
- To identify specific worker groups at higher risk for poor mental health.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study utilizing Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) data from 37 states (2015-2019).
- Analysis included over 536,000 currently employed civilian adults aged 18+.
- Self-reported data on lifetime diagnosed depression, FMD, extreme distress, MUD, industry, occupation, and sociodemographic factors were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Lifetime diagnosed depression was reported by 14.2% of workers.
- Workers in retail trade and accommodation/food services showed higher adjusted prevalences of depression and FMD.
- Certain occupations, including health care support and food preparation, reported higher FMD and extreme distress.
Conclusions:
- Significant variations in worker mental health exist across sociodemographic, industry, and occupation groups.
- Findings highlight the need for further research into work-related factors influencing mental health.
- Tailored treatment and prevention strategies are essential for improving worker mental well-being.
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