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International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health

02-04-2024 | Affective Disorder | Original Article

Association between sickness presenteeism and depressive symptoms: a cross-sectional study using the 6th Korean working conditions survey

Authors: Myeong-Hun Lim, Min-Seok Kim, Seong-Uk Baek, Tae-Yeon Kim, Jong-Uk Won, Jin-Ha Yoon

Published in: International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health

Abstract

Purpose

This study aimed to reveal the relationship of the days of experiencing sickness presentism and depressive symptoms among Korean workers. Sickness presenteeism which defined as the act of going to work despite being feeling unhealthy triggers various adverse effects on mental health, including increased risks of depression. Furthermore, Sickness presenteeism is a major social issue causing substantial socioeconomic costs.

Methods

The data of 25120 participants from sixth Korean Working Condition Survey was utilized in this cross-sectional study. Sickness presenteeism was defined using a self-reported questionnaire and depressive symptoms were assessed by WHO well-being index. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to calculate the odd ratios for depressive symptoms regarding the number of days experiencing sickness presenteeism. We calculated odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) for depressive symptoms after categorizing participants into three groups based on the duration of experiencing sickness presenteeism, using cut-off values of 3 and 5 days.

Results

Workers who have experienced sickness presenteeism for more than 5 days were at highest risk for depressive symptoms than referent group (OR 2.87; 95% CI 2.17–3.76 in male, OR 3.86; 95% CI 3.02–4.91 in female). Furthermore, there was a trend of increasing risk for depressive symptom as the duration of experiencing sickness presenteeism extended.

Conclusion

This study presents the association between experiencing sickness presenteeism in the previous 12 months and depressive symptoms. Based on the results, we provide individual and organizational strategies of reducing sickness presenteeism. Also, screening for workers who have experienced sickness presenteeism are needed to ensure good mental health.

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Title: Association between sickness presenteeism and depressive symptoms: a cross-sectional study using the 6th Korean working conditions survey
Authors: Myeong-Hun Lim
Min-Seok Kim
Seong-Uk Baek
Tae-Yeon Kim
Jong-Uk Won
Jin-Ha Yoon
Publication date: 02-04-2024
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Keywords: Affective Disorder
Affective Disorder
Published in: International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health
Print ISSN: 0340-0131
Electronic ISSN: 1432-1246
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00420-024-02061-3

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Association between sickness presenteeism and depressive symptoms: a cross-sectional study using the 6th Korean working conditions survey

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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