Workload, Mental Health and Healthcare Among Academics in Australia: A Cross-Sectional Study

High stress is associated with adverse mental health outcomes, yet the relationship between stress- measured via workload-and mental health in academics remains underexplored. This study investigated workload, mental health, and healthcare among academics in Australian higher education (HE) institutions.

In a cross-sectional study of 626 academics, we collected data on workload, mental health (GAD-7 and PHQ-9), and healthcare utilization between February 2022 and August 2022. Associations between excess workload and mental health outcomes were analyzed using both regression and G-methods.

Academics reported an average annual workload of 3256 h, significantly exceeding the standard 1824 h. Approximately 25% experienced moderate to severe anxiety or depression, substantially higher than estimates in the general population. Mental health service utilization was much higher among academics, yet 30% did not seek help. Each additional 100 h worked beyond 1824 h was associated with 0.10 higher anxiety and depression scores (β = 0.10) and 1%-2% increased odds of moderate to severe anxiety and depression. G-method analyses supported these findings, showing a 2-3 point and a 13%-15% increase in respective scores and likelihood among those working excessive hours.

The findings underscore the significant association between excessive workload and poor mental health among academics in Australian HE institutions. Addressing workload imbalances and improving healthcare services may be associated with better mental health in this population.