The Impact of Physicians' COVID-19 Pandemic Occupational Experiences on Mental Health

J Occup Environ Med. 2022 Feb 1;64(2):151-157. doi: 10.1097/JOM.0000000000002380.

Abstract

Objective: To examine the association between a number of negative COVID-19 occupational experiences and probable anxiety, depression, and PTSD among physicians.

Methods: Cross-sectional examination of longitudinal registry data consisting of physician personal and occupational well-being. Multivariable logistic regressions were performed to determine the association between negative COVID-19 experiences and outcomes.

Results: Of the 620 eligible physicians, approximately half were female (49%), and 71% white with a mean age of 46.51 (SD = 13.28). A one-point increase in negative experience score was associated with a 23% increase in probable anxiety (OR = 1.23, 95% CI: 1.14-1.34), a 23% increase in probable depression (OR = 1.23, 95% CI: 1.13-1.33), and a 41% increase in probable PTSD (OR = 1.41, 95% CI: 1.30-1.52).

Conclusions: Negative pandemic experiences were strongly associated with adverse mental health outcomes while greater resilience was protective.

MeSH terms

  • Anxiety / epidemiology
  • COVID-19*
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Depression / epidemiology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Mental Health
  • Middle Aged
  • Pandemics
  • Physicians*
  • SARS-CoV-2