Occupational stressors and common mental disorders: generational and gender differences in the ELSA-Brasil cohort

Abstract

Abstract Objective To analyze the association between occupational stressors and common mental disorders, by sex and birth cohort. Methods A cross-sectional study of currently employed workers participating in the baseline of the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil). Common mental disorders (CMD) were assessed using the Clinical Interview Schedule – Revised (CIS-R), and occupational stressors using the Swedish Demand-Control-Support Questionnaire (DCSQ). Binary logistic regression was employed, stratified by sex and birth cohort. Results A total of 11,601 workers participated, 52.1% of whom were female. The overall prevalence of CMD was 26.8%, 35.9% among women, and 19.3% among men. Occupational stressors and CMD were associated after adjustment only among working women of the Baby Boomer generation (OR = 1.32; 95% CI = 1.13, 1.54) and those in high-demand jobs (OR = 1.41; 95% CI = 1.14, 1.73), and among Generation X women who were currently employed (OR = 1.39; 95% CI = 1.09, 1.78). Conclusion It is necessary to investigate long-term effects associated with the occurrence of life events that generate stressors and factors that may potentially modify their impact. Interventions targeting the most affected groups, in the workplace and/or health care settings, are recommended for the promotion and protection of health.