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Symptoms of Mental Health Conditions and Suicidal Ideation Among State, Tribal, Local, and Territorial Public Health Workers — United States, March 14–25, 2022
General Information
Title
Symptoms of Mental Health Conditions and Suicidal Ideation Among State, Tribal, Local, and Territorial Public Health Workers — United States, March 14–25, 2022
Author
Ahoua Koné, MPH; Libby Horter, MPH; Isabel Thomas, MPH; Ramona Byrkit, MPH; Barbara Lopes-Cardozo, MD; Carol Y. Rao, ScD; Charles Rose, PhD
Publication Type
Journal paper
Outlet
Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR)
Year
2022
Abstract
What is already known about this topic?
In 2021, state, tribal, local, and territorial (STLT) public health workers reported high levels of symptoms of at least one mental health condition (depression, anxiety, or posttraumatic stress disorder [PTSD]).
What is added by this report?
In a 2022 survey of 26,069 STLT public health workers, higher PTSD prevalence was associated with more weekly work hours and more time spent on COVID-19 response activities. Most (75.5%) respondents did not think their employer increased mental health support.
What are the implications for public health practice?
To support the mental health of public health workers, public health agencies can modify work-related factors, including making organizational changes for emergency responses and facilitating access to mental health resources and services.