Domestic work, occupational stress and depression in nurses at a public hospital in Mexico City

ABSTRACT

AIM: To identify the effect of the domestic on the depression of nurses in a public hospital in Mexico City. BACKGROUND: Domestic work performed mainly by women coupled with the demands of work is associated with the possibility of developing mental disorders, especially depression. INTRODUCTION: Working conditions have an impact on the physical and mental health of nurses. Participation in domestic activities adds to wear and tear on workers. METHODS: The research had a cross-sectional design with a random sample of 329 nurses from a third-level hospital in Mexico City. Occupational stress and domestic work were evaluated with nursing Stress Scale questionnaires and the Individual Worker Health Survey (PROESSAT). The DASS-21 subscale was used for depression. The associations were analyzed using logistic regression models. RESULTS: The probability of suffering from depression was 7 times higher for women engaged in domestic work. Experiencing death, lack of support and having an additional job increased their association. DISCUSSION: The work-family conflict, as well as lack of support, is associated with depressive symptoms in nurses. CONCLUSION: There is a need to implement strategic programs that provide nurses with tools to deal with work-family conflict reconciliation. It is necessary to offer more favorable working conditions in the practice of nursing.