Assessment of Psychosocial Risks and Mental Health Status in a Faculty of Dentistry
Abstract
Objectives: It was aimed to evaluate the psychosocial risks, mental health status of the employees and related factors in a faculty of dentistry.
Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, no sample was selected. It is planned to include all employees at the faculty of dentistry between November 2021 and January 2022. The data collection form included questions on socio-demographic characteristics, working life characteristics and Coronavirus disease-2019, the Turkish Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire (COPSOQ-TR) and the General Health Questionnaire-12. Data were collected using a survey method under observation in the participant’s workplace. Chi-square test and logistic regression analysis were applied in statistical analysis. Ethical approval was obtained for the study.
Results: Three hundred three (80% participation rate) employees were included in the study. The percentage of participants with high psychosocial risk scores is highest in the dimensions of lack of job satisfaction, insecurity over working conditions and work pace. The majority (52%) had poor mental health. Those with high risk scores in most dimensions of COPSOQ-TR have significantly poorer mental health status. In regression analysis, the variables of occupational group, access to adequate and appropriate personal protective equipment, lack of predictability, and burnout predicted poor mental health status.
Conclusion: It was found that the most important psychosocial risks are lack of job satisfaction, insecurity over working conditions and work pace. It has been demonstrated that the mental health status of the majority is poor and psychosocial risks are related to the mental health status of the participants.
Keywords
Occupational health, psychosocial factors, risk assessment, dentistry, mental health
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