A Model of Depression in University Faculty, Staff, and Health Care Workers Using an Automated Mental Health Screening Tool.

Abstract

This study aimed to examine relationships among worked hours, stress, sleep hours, burnout, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression reported by academic medical center employees. Employees completed an anonymous electronic mental health survey with automated feedback that included self-help and professional local resources. Data were analyzed using structural equation modeling. Eighty percent of participants reported ( n = 693) medium/high stress, 58% reported burnout, 37%/26% screened positive for anxiety/depression, and 14% reported PTSD. Structural equation modeling attained highly significant coefficients ( P < 0.05) and excellent goodness of fit, with strong stress and PTSD positive direct associations with anxiety, burnout, and depression. The model explained 58% of variation in depression scores. A clinician only model demonstrated stronger PTSD effects, but no work hours effects. Workplace self-screening tools can guide employee mental health self-assessment, self-help programs, and professional resources, while also informing targets for employer programs.