Psychosocial stress, demoralization and the consumption of tobacco, alcohol and medical drugs by veterinarians

• Main Authors: Nienhaus Albert, Schablon Anja, Strehmel Petra, Harling Melanie
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: BMC 2009-02-01
• Series: Journal of Occupational Medicine and Toxicology
• Online Access: http://www.occup-med.com/content/4/1/4

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>In this cross-sectional study the association between psychosocial stress, demoralization and the consumption of psychotropic substances in veterinarians was examined using data from a sample of 1,060 subjects (52.7% response).</p> <p>Methods</p> <p>Multiple logistic regression models were used to determine risk factors for psychosocial stress, demoralization, tobacco consumption (≹ 10 items/day), high-risk alcohol consumption (men > 20 g pure alcohol/day, women > 10 g pure alcohol/day), binge drinking, problem drinking according to CAGE and regular medical drug intake (at least weekly).</p> <p>Results</p> <p>Intense psychosocial stress is a risk factor for binge drinking and for regular drug use. High demoralization values are associated with tobacco consumption, problem drinking and regular drug intake. The probability of a high demoralization value increased with intense psychosocial stress.</p> <p>Practicing veterinarians are more frequently affected by psychosocial stress and have a greater risk of alcohol or drug consumption than veterinarians working in a non-clinical area of work (e.g. Department of Veterinary Services, Industry).</p> <p>Conclusion</p> <p>The findings support the hypothesis of complex interrelationships between psychosocial stress, demoralization and the consumption of psychotropic substances in the veterinary profession and underscore the need of further research.</p>