To estimate the prevalence and severity of depression, anxiety, and stress among frontline doctors and nurses in Abu Dhabi and to examine specific demographic, occupational, and medical determinants associated with these mental health outcomes.
Key Findings:
Prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress among HCWs was 49% (95% CI: ...), 45% (95% CI: ...), and 46% (95% CI: ...), respectively.
Middle Eastern HCWs had higher odds of depression (aOR=1.94; 95% CI: 1.13–3.35), anxiety (aOR=1.80; 95% CI: 1.03–3.21), and stress (aOR=2.42; 95% CI: 1.37–4.33) compared to Asian HCWs.
Workplace conflict significantly predicted distress, increasing the odds of depression (aOR=3.36; 95% CI: ...), anxiety (aOR=1.99; 95% CI: ...), and stress (aOR=3.78; 95% CI: ...).
Chronic fatigue was associated with increased odds of depression (aOR=4.21; 95% CI: ...), anxiety (aOR=3.89; 95% CI: ...), and stress (aOR=3.34; 95% CI: ...).
Protective factors included age ≥40 years for stress (aOR=0.61; 95% CI: ...) and postgraduate education for anxiety (aOR=0.55; 95% CI: ...).
Interpretation:
Post-pandemic mental health symptoms remain significant among Abu Dhabi HCWs, particularly among younger providers and those experiencing workplace conflict or chronic fatigue, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.
Limitations:
Cross-sectional design limits causal inferences.
Self-reported measures may introduce bias.
Study conducted in a single healthcare provider may limit generalizability and introduce selection bias.
Conclusion:
Sustained mental health programs, routine screening, and targeted support for high-risk groups are urgently required to protect clinician well-being.
