Perceived stigma, substance use and self-medication in night-shift healthcare workers: a qualitative study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Many risk factors related to altered circadian rhythms impact the health of night-shift hospital workers (NSHW), resulting in mental and somatic disorders. Easy access to psychoactive substances (PS) may facilitate addictive behaviors in NSHW. They are also exposed to a stressful work environment, which may further affect sleep quality. This study aimed to explore the link between sleep deprivation, work-related psychosocial stress and psychoactive substance use as a self-medication response in NSHW.

Methods

Qualitative study to verify the plausibility of the self-medication theory applied to addictive behaviors. Semi-structured interviews (N = 18 NSHW) and thematic analysis, following consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research recommendations.

Re

SUBMITTER: Cousin L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9128768 | biostudies-literature | 2022 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature