Prevalence of anxiety and depression and associated factors among firefighters: a cross-sectional study in Turkey

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Firefighting is a demanding profession that requires physical strength, mental fortitude, and unwavering dedication. While firefighters are known for their bravery and heroism, it is essential to recognize the potential impact of their work on their mental health. This study examined the prevalence of anxiety and depression and contributing factors among firefighter in Turkey.

METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 250 full-time professional firefighters, and used the Beck anxiety inventory and the Beck depression inventory forms for data collection. The chi-square analysis method was used to compare categorical data. Predictors of anxiety and depression were determined using a univariate binary logistic regression model.

RESULTS: The mean age, BAI score and BDI score of the participants were 43.7±11.4, 5.9±8.1, and 6.2±8.8, respectively. The prevalence of anxiety and depression were 10.8%, and 9.6%, respectively. The prevalence of anxiety (p=0.007) and depression (p=0.008) among participants with chronic diseases was higher than among participants without chronic diseases. The identified predictors of anxiety were smoking (OR 4.873, 95% CI 1.293-18.419, p=0.019) and depression (OR 11.411, 95% CI 3.861-33.772, p=0.001). The identified predictors of depression were alcohol consumption (OR 2.722, 95% CI 1.072-6.872, p=0.034) and chronic disease (OR 2.582, 95% CI 1.031-6.532, p=0.044).

CONCLUSION: The findings revealed that anxiety and depression as very common psychiatric problems among firefighters, more prevalent among those working in the city center, smokers, alcohol consumers, verbal violence victims, and those with chronic diseases