Determining the Influence of Life Change Events on the Mental Health Nurses; A Case of Saudi Arabia

Abstract

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES: Few researches are found concerning the relationship of life-altering events and psychological health among mental health nurses in Saudi Arabia. Thereby, the study examines the influence of life-altering events on Saudi mental health of nurses. METHODS: A descriptive correlational research design was used where mental health nurses from three different hospitals were recruited using a random sampling method. Data was collected using Qandil’s Arabic Modified Life Events Questionnaire. Pearson correlation evaluated the relationship between variables. RESULTS: Major change in eating habits was responsible for expressing both depression and stress. Inclusion of new members, leaving loved ones due to several causes, spouses’ death, and substantial changes in the family members’ health status are all significantly related to depression. Change occurred in the parents’ marital status due to divorce or death also became the cause of depression. This is also same when person felt burden in taking care of the sick family member. Going on vacations and short trips, change in the meetings of family and social activities may help in relieving depression. CONCLUSION: The findings show that big personal achievements lead to negative relationship with depression. Stress-related factors are also a personal problem, which must be intervened with the enhancement of the working conditions.