Particularities of psychiatric disorders among healthcare professionals: about a Tunisian study
W. Ayed, M. Mersni, S. chemingui, Y. Sellaouti, G. Bahri, N. Houssem, M. Bani, N. LadhariIntroduction
Healthcare professionals (HCPs) are exposed to intense occupational stressors that increase their vulnerability to psychiatric disorders.
Objectives
To describe the socio-professional characteristics of HCPs suffering from psychiatric disorders To Specify the impact of psychiatric disorders on the medical fitness for work.
Methods
Retrospective descriptive study of HCPs who consulted the occupational pathology and fitness for work department, during the period from August 2022 to September 2025, as part of a medical examination for long-term absence.
Results
Of the 2840 consultants who presented for medical control, 2404 (84,6%) were HCPs. The average age was 45,9 ± 15,7 years. They were predominantly female, with a sex ratio (M/F) of 0,24. The most occupied work positions were : nurses (30,6%), workers (29,2%) and senior technicians (19,3%). They belonged to the medical (76,8%) and surgical services (23,2%). The most common psychiatric disorders were: depression (82,8%), bipolar (5%), and anxiety disorders (5%). The average length of time off work was 62±44 days. The factors contributing to the decompensation of psychiatric disorders were were social in nature (36,3%), work-related (26,8%), and related to a chronic pathologies (36,1%). Medical decisions were to justify sick leave (85%) and return to work (15%).
Conclusions
Our study underscore a substantial burden of psychiatric morbidity among Tunisian HCPs and highlight the interplay of social, medical and occupational determinants. A systematic mental-health screening in occupational settings, early multidisciplinary management (occupational medicine, psychiatry, social services) and targeted workplace interventions is indicated.
Disclosure of Interest
None Declared