Work-related stress and mental health among bus drivers in Bangkok mass transit authority

Abstract

Background: The work-related stress and mental health problems are increasing every year due to the changing environmental and social conditions. Bus drivers are particularly vulnerable to these problems because of their jobs and the unsafe work environment that can cause work-related stress and mental health problems.

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and factors associated with work-related stress and mental health problems among bus drivers in the Bangkok mass transit authority.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 329 bus drivers during February and April 2023. The instrument used in this research was a questionnaire that included personal factors, workrelated factors, and work environment. Work-related stress was assessed by using the Thai JCQ-45, while mental health status was evaluated using the Thai GHQ-12. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, bivariate, and multiple logistic regression analyses.

Results: The response rate was 86.6%. The prevalence of high work-related stress was 30.4% and the prevalence of individuals at risk of mental problems was 19.5%. Factors associated with work-related stress included female gender (aOR 2.1, 95% CI: 1.1 - 4.3), physical exercise at least 5 days per week (aOR 0.32, 95% CI: 0.1 - 0.9), high physical job demands (aOR 7.5, 95%CI: 4.0 - 14.0), high social support (aOR 0.1, 95% CI: 0.0 - 0.4). Factors associated with the risk of mental health problems were working more than 48 hours per week (aOR 2.1, 95% CI: 1.1 - 4.0) and high hazard at work (aOR 3.8, 95% CI: 31.9 - 7.5). Moreover, employees with high work-related stress had a 1.8 times higher risk of mental health problems (95% CI: 1.0 - 3.1) compared to those with low work-related stress.

Conclusion: Bus drivers are at risk of work-related stress and mental health problems. Therefore, organizations should promote policies regarding work-related stress and mental health problems to ensure that employees can work happily and maintain good mental health.