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PREVALENCE OF DEPRESSION AND ITS ASSOCIATED FACTORS AMONG NURSES IN UBTH WORKERS
Abstract
This study focused on investigating the prevalence of depression among nurses at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) using a quantitative survey research design. A structured questionnaire was developed to gather data from a sample of 120 respondents, comprising nurses from various departments within the hospital. The data collection process involved administering the questionnaire, and responses were analyzed using SPSS version 27. The study aimed to assess the factors associated with depression among nurses, explore coping strategies utilized, and examine the impact of organizational support on managing depression in the workplace. The statistical analysis involved the use of a t-test to test several hypotheses related to depression prevalence, associated factors, coping strategies, and organizational support. The findings indicated a significant prevalence of depression among nurses at UBTH, with factors such as workload, work environment stressors, and personal life challenges being identified as contributors to depression. Coping strategies such as seeking social support, engaging in regular physical activity, and professional counseling were found to be effective in managing depression among nurses. Moreover, the study highlighted the importance of organizational support and resources in preventing and addressing mental health issues among healthcare professionals. Based on the results, the study concluded that depression is indeed a prevalent issue among nurses in UBTH, and addressing this requires multifaceted approaches that involve both individual coping strategies and organizational support systems. The study recommends the implementation of mental health awareness programs, provision of counseling services, and creation of supportive work environments that promote employee well-being. Additionally, ongoing monitoring and evaluation of mental health initiatives are crucial to ensure their effectiveness and sustainability in addressing depression and improving the overall mental well-being of nurses in healthcare settings.
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
Depression is a pervasive mental health disorder that affects millions globally, including healthcare professionals such as nurses. Nurses, who are often on the frontline of patient care, encounter numerous stressors and challenges in their daily work environment, which can significantly contribute to the onset and development of depression (Aloufi et al., 2021). Understanding the prevalence of depression among nurses, particularly in specific healthcare settings like the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), is essential for creating effective interventions and support systems that enhance their mental well-being and job performance.
The mental health of healthcare professionals, including nurses, has been the focus of various studies. According to the World Health Organization (2021), depression ranks as a leading cause of disability worldwide and is especially common among healthcare workers due to the demanding nature of their roles. A systematic review by Aloufi et al. (2021) highlighted the mental health challenges faced by undergraduate nursing students, revealing a significant prevalence of stress, anxiety, and depression. These challenges often extend into their professional lives, impacting their overall mental health.
Demi et al. (2022) the factors that contribute to depression among nursing students, such as academic stress, clinical workload, and a lack of social support. These elements can persist as they transition into professional practice, exacerbating mental health issues. The transition from academic to professional life can be fraught with difficulties, further increasing the risk of depression among new nurses.
Research by Tung et al. (2018) highlights the importance of addressing mental health issues within healthcare education settings. The rigorous training and clinical responsibilities of nursing students at UBTH can lead to heightened stress levels, making it crucial to understand and address these issues to support their transition into professional roles. This is especially important for UBTH, where nursing students undergo demanding training and may face increased stress due to the challenging nature of their education and clinical duties.
Beyond academic stress, employment status has been identified as a key predictor of mental health issues among nursing students and professionals (Moxham et al., 2018). The socio-economic challenges faced by many nurses, including low salaries, job insecurity, and limited career advancement opportunities, can exacerbate stress and contribute to depression. Addressing these broader socio-economic factors is essential to creating a supportive work environment that promotes mental health and resilience among nursing staff.
Accurate assessment of mental health using standardized tools is vital for obtaining reliable prevalence estimates and implementing effective intervention strategies. Instruments like the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ) and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) have been widely used to assess psychological distress and anxiety levels among various populations (Goldberg & Williams, 2020; Öner & Le Compte, 2019). These tools can provide valuable quantitative data that informs targeted interventions to support the mental health of nurses at UBTH.
The impact of depression on healthcare professionals extends beyond individual well-being to affect patient care and safety. Research shows that the mental health of healthcare providers directly influences patient outcomes and the quality of care delivered (Akdemir et al., 2022). Depression among nurses can lead to decreased job satisfaction, burnout, and increased absenteeism, all of which can compromise patient care. Addressing depression among nurses at UBTH is crucial for maintaining high standards of healthcare delivery and ensuring patient safety.
1.2 Statement of Problem
The prevalence of depression among nurses, particularly in high-stress environments like the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), raises significant concerns regarding the mental well-being of healthcare professionals (Tung et al., 2018). Globally, depression affects over 280 million people and is a leading cause of disability, according to the World Health Organization. It contributes significantly to the global burden of disease and is a major risk factor for suicide, with approximately 700,000 people dying by suicide each year. Nurses, due to the demanding nature of their profession, are particularly vulnerable to experiencing depression and its detrimental effects.
The high levels of stress that nurses encounter daily contribute to the development of depression. This stress stems from several factors, including intense workloads, long hours, and the emotional demands of patient care. Moreover, the lack of organizational support and inadequate resources often exacerbate feelings of isolation and stress among nurses, contributing to their mental health challenges. Role conflicts, where nurses must juggle between patient care and administrative duties, can also increase stress levels and contribute to depression. Additionally, the frequent exposure to traumatic events, such as patient suffering and death, has a profound psychological impact on nurses, potentially leading to depressive symptoms. Personal life stressors, such as financial difficulties and lack of social support, further increase the risk of depression among nurses.
While research has illuminated some of the challenges nurses face in terms of stressors and mental health issues (Karaca et al., 2019), significant gaps remain in our understanding, especially concerning UBTH. One major gap is the lack of specific data on the prevalence of depression among nurses at UBTH. Though studies have examined depression rates among nursing students and within general healthcare settings (Tung et al., 2018; Moxham et al., 2018), there is an urgent need for targeted research within UBTH to provide accurate prevalence estimates. Such research is essential for designing interventions tailored to the needs of UBTH nurses.
Moreover, there is a gap in understanding the specific coping strategies nurses at UBTH use to manage depression and related mental health challenges. Effective coping mechanisms are critical in mitigating stress and mental health disorders (Labrague et al., 2018), and examining these strategies could provide valuable insights for developing targeted interventions and support systems. Lastly, another significant gap pertains to the organizational support and resources available to nurses at UBTH concerning mental health. While studies emphasize the importance of organizational support in mitigating stress and promoting mental well-being among healthcare professionals (Karaca et al., 2019; Labrague et al., 2018), assessing the specific support mechanisms and resources within UBTH is necessary to identify areas for improvement. Addressing these gaps is crucial for developing evidence-based interventions and support systems tailored to the needs of nurses at UBTH. By filling these gaps in knowledge, healthcare institutions can promote a healthier work environment, enhance the well-being of their nursing staff, and ultimately improve the quality of patient care.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The following specific objectives were examined:
- To determine the prevalence of depression among nurses in UBTH.
- To identify factors associated with depression among nurses in UBTH.
- To identify coping strategies for depression among nurses in UBTH.
1.4 Research Questions
The following research questions were asked:
- What is the prevalence rate of depression among nurses in UBTH?
- What are the factors associated with depression among nurses in UBTH?
- What coping strategies do nurses in UBTH employ to deal with depression?
1.5 Research Hypotheses
The following hypotheses were tested:
- There is no significant prevalence of depression among nurses in UBTH. Hypothesis 2
- Factors such as workload, work environment, and personal life stressors are not associated with depression among nurses in UBTH.
- Nurses in UBTH utilize various coping strategies such as social support, self-care practices, and professional counseling to manage depression.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study holds immense significance due to its potential to inform healthcare management and policy development regarding mental health support for nurses, particularly those working at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH). By delving into the prevalence, associated factors, and coping strategies related to depression among nurses in UBTH, this research can pave the way for tailored interventions aimed at improving mental health outcomes, reducing burnout, and enhancing overall job satisfaction among nurses.
Understanding the prevalence of depression among nurses at UBTH is crucial as it provides a baseline for assessing the magnitude of the issue within this specific healthcare environment. This knowledge can guide healthcare administrators and policymakers in allocating resources and designing interventions that address the unique needs of UBTH nurses, ultimately leading to more effective mental health support initiatives.
Moreover, identifying the associated factors contributing to depression among UBTH nurses is essential for developing targeted interventions. Factors such as workload, job-related stressors, organizational support, and personal coping mechanisms can significantly impact nurses’ mental well-being. By unraveling these factors, healthcare management can implement strategies to mitigate stressors, enhance support systems, and create a healthier work environment conducive to positive mental health outcomes.
Additionally, exploring the coping strategies employed by nurses at UBTH to manage depression is instrumental in designing proactive interventions. Effective coping mechanisms play a critical role in buffering against the negative effects of stress and mental health challenges. By understanding which coping strategies are most beneficial and accessible to UBTH nurses, healthcare organizations can promote resilience, reduce psychological distress, and foster a culture of self-care and well-being among their nursing workforce.
Ultimately, the insights gained from this study can lead to evidence-based recommendations for healthcare management and policy development. These recommendations may include implementing mental health awareness programs, providing training on stress management and coping skills, enhancing access to mental health resources and support services, and fostering a supportive and inclusive organizational culture that prioritizes nurses’ mental well-being.