# Depression Screening as a Part of the Employees' Annual Checkup Using a Two-Step Approach at King Khalid University Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

## TL;DR

This study found that over 40% of healthcare workers at a Saudi hospital showed signs of depression, highlighting the need for regular mental health screenings.

## Contribution

The study introduces a two-step depression screening approach for healthcare workers in Saudi Arabia.

## Key findings

- 42% of healthcare workers screened showed signs of major depressive disorder.
- Younger healthcare workers who smoked and had no children were more likely to experience depression.
- Only 7.2% of participants reported a family history of mental illness.

## Abstract

Introduction

Health professionals experience high levels of work-related stress; hence, the study of depression among healthcare workers (HCWs) is essential to improve patient care, prevent burnout, and retain a skilled workforce as well as reduce stigma, enhance workplace productivity, and promote overall well-being. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of depression and associated factors among HCWs at King Khalid University Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study among HCWs at King Khalid University Hospital. All healthcare workers required to renew their contract annually were given a Patient Health Questionnaire 2 (PHQ2) tool for screening for depression; if their score was three or more, a Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ9) tool was given along with additional questions including demographic, profession-related factors, and stressor presence in different life dimensions.

Results

In total, 69 HCWs filled out the screening survey (PHQ9). Most were females (n=57; 82.6%), with 36 (52.2%) aged 35 years or below. Five (7.2%) HCWs reported a family history of mental illness. The prevalence of major depressive disorders among HCWs was 29 (42%).

Conclusions

Younger HCWs who smoked and had no children were more susceptible to depression. Annual psychological screenings for HCWs could be beneficial for monitoring staff vulnerable to mental health disorders. We need a future multicenter study approach to confirm the prevalence of major depression in our region.