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 prevalent mental health condition affecting individuals worldwide, including healthcare professionals such as nurses (Aloufi et al., 2021). Nurses, as frontline caregivers, face unique stressors and challenges in their work environment, which can contribute to the development of depression (Demi et al., 2022). Understanding the prevalence of depression among nurses in specific healthcare settings, such as the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), is crucial for developing targeted interventions and support systems.

Several studies have highlighted the prevalence of depression among healthcare professionals, including nurses, in different contexts. For example, Aloufi et al. (2021) conducted a systematic review focusing on reducing stress, anxiety, and depression in undergraduate nursing students, shedding light on the challenges faced by nursing students. Similarly, Demi et al. (2022) explored depression-related factors in nursing students through a path analysis, providing insights into the various factors contributing to depressive symptoms among this population.

The University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) serves as a critical healthcare institution where nurses play a pivotal role in patient care. Research conducted by Tung et al. (2018) on the prevalence of depression among nursing students emphasizes the importance of understanding mental health issues within healthcare education settings. This knowledge is particularly relevant for institutions like UBTH, where nursing students undergo rigorous training and may experience heightened stress levels.

In addition to academic stressors, employment status has been identified as a predictor of mental health issues among nursing students (Moxham et al., 2018). This finding underscores the need to consider not only the educational environment but also the broader socio-economic factors that can impact the mental well-being of nurses, both during their training and in their professional careers at institutions like UBTH.

Assessing mental health using standardized tools is essential for accurate prevalence estimates and effective intervention strategies. Instruments such as the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ) and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) have been widely used in research to assess psychological distress and anxiety levels among various populations (Goldberg & Williams, 2020; Öner & Le Compte, 2019). These tools can be valuable in studying depression among nurses at UBTH, providing quantitative data for targeted interventions.

Moreover, the impact of depression on healthcare professionals extends beyond individual well-being to patient care and safety. Studies have shown that healthcare providers' mental health directly influences patient outcomes and quality of care (Akdemir et al., 2022). Therefore, addressing depression among nurses at UBTH is not only essential for their own sake but also for maintaining high standards of healthcare delivery and patient safety.

1.2 Statement of Problem

The prevalence of depression among nurses, especially 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). While research has highlighted the challenges faced by nurses in terms of stressors and mental health issues (Karaca et al., 2019), there are several gaps that need to be addressed to develop a comprehensive understanding of the problem.

One of the gaps in the existing literature is the lack of specific data on the prevalence of depression among nurses at UBTH. While studies have explored depression rates in nursing students and general healthcare settings (Tung et al., 2018; Moxham et al., 2018), there is a need for focused research within the context of UBTH to provide accurate prevalence estimates.

Additionally, the factors contributing to depression among nurses in UBTH remain inadequately explored. While studies have identified stressors and coping mechanisms among nursing students and healthcare professionals in general (Karaca et al., 2019; Labrague et al., 2018), a deeper analysis is required to understand the unique stressors faced by nurses in a teaching hospital setting like UBTH.

Furthermore, there is a gap in the literature regarding the specific coping strategies utilized by nurses at UBTH to manage depression and related mental health challenges. Effective coping mechanisms play a crucial role in mitigating the impact of stress and mental health disorders (Labrague et al., 2018), and exploring these strategies among UBTH nurses can provide valuable insights for developing targeted interventions and support systems.

Another gap pertains to the organizational support and resources available to nurses at UBTH regarding mental health. While studies have emphasized the importance of organizational support in mitigating stress and promoting mental well-being among healthcare professionals (Karaca et al., 2019; Labrague et al., 2018), an assessment of the specific support mechanisms and resources within UBTH is essential 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:

1. To determine the prevalence of depression among nurses in UBTH.

2. To identify factors associated with depression among nurses in UBTH.

3. To identify coping strategies for depression among nurses in UBTH.

1.4 Research Questions

The following research questions were asked:

1. What is the prevalence rate of depression among nurses in UBTH?

2. What are the factors associated with depression among nurses in UBTH?

3. What coping strategies do nurses in UBTH employ to deal with depression?

1.5 Research Hypotheses

The following hypotheses were tested:

1. There is no significant prevalence of depression among nurses in UBTH. Hypothesis 2

2. Factors such as workload, work environment, and personal life stressors are not associated with depression among nurses in UBTH.

3. 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.

1.7 Scope of the Study

This study will focus on nurses working at UBTH in Nigeria. It will assess the prevalence of depression using standardized assessment tools, investigate factors such as workload, work environment, and personal life stressors related to depression, and explore coping strategies employed by nurses to manage depression within the hospital setting.

1.8 Operational Definition of Terms

Depression: A mental health condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and disinterest in daily activities.

Prevalence: The proportion of nurses within UBTH who experience symptoms consistent with depression during a specified period.

Factors associated with depression: Variables such as workload, work environment, personal life stressors, and social support that are correlated with the occurrence or severity of depression among nurses.

Coping strategies: Techniques and behaviors used by nurses to manage and alleviate symptoms of depression, including social support networks, self-care practices, and professional counseling.

UBTH (University of Benin Teaching Hospital): A tertiary healthcare institution located in Benin City, Nigeria, serving as the study's primary setting.

Workload: The amount of tasks and responsibilities assigned to nurses within UBTH during their work shifts.

Work environment: The physical, social, and organizational conditions in which nurses carry out their duties at UBTH.

Personal life stressors: Non-work-related challenges and stress factors that may impact the mental health of nurses, such as family issues or financial concerns.