Mental Health Status and Stress Factors Among Junior Doctors in Public Hospitals in Bangladesh A Cross Sectional Analysis

Abstract

Background: Junior doctors are often subjected to high levels of workplace stress, contributing to poor mental health outcomes. In resource-limited settings like Bangladesh, the compounded challenges of excessive work hours, night shifts, and systemic inadequacies further exacerbate these issues. Objective: This study aimed to assess the mental health status of junior doctors and identify key stress factors influencing their psychological well-being in public hospitals in Khulna, Bangladesh. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from January to June 2024, involving 120 intern doctors and 36 medical officers from three private medical colleges in Khulna. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire incorporating the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12) to assess mental health. Statistical analyses, including chi-square tests, independent t-tests, and logistic regression, were performed to identify associations and predictors of psychological distress. Results: Half of the participants (50.0%) exhibited normal mental health, while 30.1% had mild psychological distress, and 19.9% experienced severe distress. Key stressors included high patient load (83.3%), poor work-life balance (70.5%), lack of supervision (73.7%), and limited resources (62.8%). Longer work hours (≥60 hours/week) were significantly associated with higher GHQ-12 scores (mean: 10.4 ± 3.1; p=0.002). Night shifts ≥5 per month were a strong predictor of severe distress (OR=4.8, p<0.001), alongside poor work-life balance (OR=2.9, p=0.008). Coping mechanisms such as peer support (65.4%) were commonly adopted. Conclusion: The study highlights a significant prevalence of psychological distress among junior doctors, emphasizing the impact of prolonged work hours, frequent night shifts, and systemic challenges. Addressing these issues through policy reforms and mental health support programs is crucial to improving junior doctors’ well-being and healthcare delivery.