Abstract

Aim: The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the healthcare sector. This study aimed to evaluate depression, anxiety, stress, and associated factors among healthcare shift workers.

Methods: The study included healthcare shift workers directly involved in managing COVID-19 cases in Klang Valley, Malaysia. Participants' mental health status was assessed using the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21). Factors examined included sleep quality, physical activity, and dietary habits. Pearson's χ2 and simple multivariate binary logistic regression models, employing the Hosmer-Lemeshow approach, were used to identify relevant factors.

Results: A total of 413 participants were recruited. Overall, 40.7% of participants exhibited symptoms of depression, anxiety, or stress. Poor sleep quality was significantly associated with all three psychological outcomes. Inactivity was strongly linked to symptoms of depression and anxiety, while dietary habits showed a strong association with anxiety and stress.

Conclusion: The findings highlight the importance of addressing modifiable factors- such as sleep quality, physical activity, and diet- to mitigate mental health issues among medical shift workers.