A descriptive study of stress as indicated by perceived stress scale scores among the Neuropsychiatry unit staff of the Makati Medical Center over a one month period in 2015

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE@#The aim of this study was to describe the degree of stress experienced among staff of a high-risk unit in Makati Medical Center - the Neuropsychiatry Unit.@*METHODOLOGY@#The Perceived Stress Scale developed by Cohen in 1983 was the tool used. It is a ten-item, self-administered questionnaire that measures perceived stress levels of respondents. Perceived stress levels may be lower than average, slightly lower than average, average, slightly higher than average or much higher than average. Demographic characteristics of respondents were likewise determined. Respondents were members of the Neuropsychiatry unit staff.@*RESULTS@#The Neuropsychiatry unit staff generally presented with perceived stress levels of slightly higher than average. Most of the staff were female, aged thirty years old and below, single, with at least college level education. Birth order, the presence of night shifts, eight-hour shifts, length of service in years, and varying job designation in the unit were also identified. Majority of the respondents had not had any previous consultation with a mental health professional, and viewed having a support group in the workplace to be beneficial.@*CONCLUSION@#The staff members of the Neuropsychiatry unit perceived stress to be slightly higher than average.