Assessing the Impact of Workplace Stress on Mental Health Among Health Workers A Case Study of the 37 Military Hospital in Accra, Ghana

Abstract

Background: The 37 Military Hospital in Accra is in a stressful working environment founded on the fact that it is a dual service provider as both a military and civilian provider of healthcare services. However, the degrees to which these pressure points are transcending to the psyche of the health workers and, to a large extent, in the military health establishments like the 37 Military Hospital, there is a lack of literature concerning empirical studies into their impact. To address this gap, a study will be conducted to determine the impacts of workplace stress on the mental health of health workers at the 37 Military Hospital. Methodology: This study adopted a cross-sectional quantitative design, which allowed for the collection of quantitative data at a single point in time. This approach enabled the researcher to measure the prevalence and patterns of workplace stress and mental health outcomes (depression, anxiety, and stress levels) among health workers. This design was appropriate for this research because it facilitated the simultaneous examination of prevalence of depression, anxiety and stress within the institutional context of a military hospital. Conclusion: The study revealed a high prevalence of depression, anxiety and stress among the clinical health workers. Therefore, policy makers and mental health professionals should advocate for platforms for regular dialogue with frontline staff to identify workplace challenges and implement timely solutions. Further studies should be conducted to examine the economic implications of workplace stress on healthcare delivery, including costs associated with absenteeism, turnover, and reduced productivity.