According to a new study published in JAMA Network Open, around 14% of U.S. workers reported being diagnosed with depression, with rates being higher in certain industries or occupations, including healthcare.
Professions with the highest rates of depression
For the study, CDC researchers analyzed data from 2015 to 2019 from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, which surveys workers ages 18 and older in 37 U.S. states. The survey includes self-reported data on diagnosed depression, frequent mental distress, extreme distress, and number of mentally unhealthy days in the last 30 days.
Overall, 14.2% of workers reported being diagnosed with depression. Women were twice as likely to report having been diagnosed with depression compared to men. Fewer than 10% of male workers reported being diagnosed with depression compared to almost 20% of female workers.
Young adults aged 18 to 34 were also more likely to report being diagnosed with depression compared to older age groups.
By industry, accommodation and food services, healthcare and social assistance, and retail trade had the highest rates of depression at around 18%.
By occupation, healthcare support, community and social services, personal care and services, and food preparation and serving had the highest rates of depression at 20% or more. In addition, almost 18% of healthcare practitioners reported being diagnosed with depression.
Commentary
Manish Sapra, executive director of Northwell Health's Behavioral Service Line, said the study was "significant" and that findings highlight a need for tailored support systems for workers who may be at a higher risk of mental health challenges due to their jobs.
"With anything we're doing on well-being or mental health for employees, employers need to customize those benefits and solutions for their specific population and not just pick something off the shelf and give that as a benefit," Sapra said.
For example, Northwell created specialized support systems, including a peer support network and a stress first aid framework, to help employees recognize signs of stress in themselves and others.
Advisory Board's resources for worker well-being
- How 3 leaders are driving progress in behavioral healthcare
- Women's health opportunity: Anxiety disorders and depression care
- Tactics for provider organizations to build a stronger behavioral health system
- 6 ways providers are revolutionizing mental health care through new technology
- Radio Advisory: The good and the (unintentionally) bad of virtual behavioral health investment
- 7 habits that can lower your risk of depression
"We've also developed expanded access to mental health services for our employees, which really helps get them help when they need it," Sapra said. "We developed some digital technology to do that, basically giving employees access at the touch of a button."
Sapra also provided recommendations for other employers, including addressing barriers like stigma, cost, and language that could prevent workers from seeking care. Digital technologies that allow workers to access telehealth services from anywhere or at any time can also help improve access to care.
According to the researchers, more research is needed to understand how jobs affect workers' physical and mental health, as well as how interventions could impact workers.
"Workplaces can play a role in identifying and reducing psychosocial hazards and promoting workers' mental health," the researchers wrote.
(Carbajal, Becker's Hospital Review, 6/9; Amponsah, Bloomberg, 6/6; Beard, New York Post, 6/6; Sussell, et al., JAMA Network Open, 6/6)
Don't miss out on the latest Advisory Board insights
Create your free account to access 1 resource, including the latest research and webinars.
Want access without creating an account?
You have 1 free members-only resource remaining this month.
1 free members-only resources remaining
1 free members-only resources remaining
You've reached your limit of free insights
Become a member to access all of Advisory Board's resources, events, and experts
Never miss out on the latest innovative health care content tailored to you.
Benefits include:
Unlimited access to research and resources
Member-only access to events and trainings
Expert-led consultation and facilitation
The latest content delivered to your inbox
You've reached your limit of free insights
Become a member to access all of Advisory Board's resources, events, and experts
Never miss out on the latest innovative health care content tailored to you.
Benefits include:
Unlimited access to research and resources
Member-only access to events and trainings
Expert-led consultation and facilitation
The latest content delivered to your inbox
This content is available through your Curated Research partnership with Advisory Board. Click on ‘view this resource’ to read the full piece
Email ask@advisory.com to learn more
Click on ‘Become a Member’ to learn about the benefits of a Full-Access partnership with Advisory Board
Never miss out on the latest innovative health care content tailored to you.
Benefits Include:
Unlimited access to research and resources
Member-only access to events and trainings
Expert-led consultation and facilitation
The latest content delivered to your inbox
This is for members only. Learn more.
Click on ‘Become a Member’ to learn about the benefits of a Full-Access partnership with Advisory Board
Never miss out on the latest innovative health care content tailored to you.
Benefits Include:
Unlimited access to research and resources
Member-only access to events and trainings
Expert-led consultation and facilitation
The latest content delivered to your inbox
