Prevalence of Anxiety-Depressive Disorders and Stress Among Administrative Staff
K. Imene, R. Nakhli, A. Asma, C. Sridi, C. Farah, F. Imen, B. Narjess, M. Maoua, M. NejibIntroduction
Tobacco use remains a major global public health challenge, causing more than 8 million deaths annually. Its association with anxiety and depressive disorders is well established, creating a vicious cycle in which smoking, often perceived as a stress reliever, paradoxically worsens psychological health. Administrative staff, although not exposed to significant physical occupational hazards, face specific constraints (mental workload, sedentary lifestyle, hierarchical pressures) that may promote such comorbidities.
Objectives
To assess the prevalence of anxiety, depression, and perceived stress in smoking administrative employees.
Methods
A cross-sectional descriptive observational study was conducted among 42 administrative employees who smoke at STEG. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire including sociodemographic characteristics, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and the Perceived Stress Scale-10 (PSS-10).
Results
The prevalence of smoking was 31.81% among administrative staff, with a mean tobacco exposure of 21 pack-years. The study population was predominantly male (95.2%), with a mean age of 44.36 ± 9.81 years, and 66.7% held higher education degrees. Anxiety and depressive disorders affected 76% of smokers (mean HADS score: 17), while 85.7% reported moderate to high stress levels (mean PSS score: 21).
Conclusions
Our findings highlight the need for a multidisciplinary approach incorporating targeted prevention, early screening, and organizational interventions. Occupational health strategies should be redefined beyond traditional physical hazards to address psychosocial dimensions as a major public health concern.
Disclosure of Interest
None Declared