Mental Health. 2025; Volume 20. Issue 7

Introduction. Night shifts pose a significant risk to physicians’ mental and somatic health. The consequences go beyond physiological disturbances and affect psychosocial functioning.

Objective. To investigate the impact of night work on mental and physical health indicators among physicians in Belarus.

Methods. The study involved 755 physicians, including 446 regularly working night shifts. Psychometric tools included SCL-90-R, MFI-20, and SF-36. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 21.0 with Student’s t-test and ANOVA.

Results. Physicians working night shifts showed significantly worse scores in fatigue, psychopathology, and quality of life compared to their day-working peers (p<0.001). Despite this, 42.4% of night shift physicians believed they coped well with the demands, indicating the presence of anosognosia.

Conclusion. Night work negatively affects physicians’ psychosocial functioning, often underestimated by the physicians themselves. This unawareness increases the risk of burnout and may compromise healthcare quality and efficiency.

Keywords: night shifts, physicians, mental health, somatic health, stress, anosognosia, occupational health

Introduction. In modern workplaces, mental health is shaped by multiple factors, including job strain, psychosocial risks, and the complexity of the digital environment.

Objective. To analyze contemporary concepts of how work environment factors influence mental health and to assess the regulatory approaches to evaluating and protecting employees’ psychological well-being.

Methods. Review of national and international literature, regulatory frameworks, and methodological documents from WHO, ILO, and Russian ministries.

Results. The analysis revealed a gap between the evolving legal framework in occupational health and the lack of unified federal criteria for assessing workers’ mental health. Emotional and cognitive load, as well as work schedules, should be integrated into occupational risk assessment systems. Burnout syndrome is highlighted as a marker of professional distress. International guidelines on prevention and reintegration of workers with mental disorders are discussed, alongside the importance of interdisciplinary training for non-psychiatric professionals.

Conclusion. Addressing mental health in occupational policies is essential. Developing a standardized methodology and recognizing mental disorders as occupational conditions are key to reducing stress and ensuring workforce longevity.

Keywords: mental health, work environment, psychosocial factors, burnout, occupational safety, occupational diseases

Introduction. In the transforming realities of the VUCA world, the issue of mental health requires a systemic rethinking of the key factors influencing human well-being.

Objective. To justify human potential realization as a system-forming factor of mental health by integrating theories of functional systems, the hierarchy of needs, and the demands of the post-industrial era.

Methods. Theoretical analysis of systemic concepts, Maslow’s needs hierarchy, functional system behavior theory, and VUCA/VICA paradigms; review of normative documents and international mental health strategies.

Results. A modified version of Maslow’s pyramid prioritizing self-actualization is proposed. VICA principles are introduced as tools for effective adaptation in uncertain conditions. Realization of personal potential enhances psychological well-being, resilience, professional longevity, and productivity. The study emphasizes organizational strategies for talent development, value alignment, flexible work formats, and employee recognition.

Conclusion. Self-actualization serves as a central system-forming component of mental health, fostering personal integrity and adaptability. Creating supportive environments is crucial for public health policies and human capital management.

Keywords: mental health, human potential, VUCA world, self-actualization, systems theory, functional system, occupational well-being

Introduction. While genetic and neurobiological mechanisms in eating disorders (EDs) are well established, sociocultural pressure remains a critical external trigger of disordered eating behaviors.

Objective. To explore the impact of fashion trends and social norms on the development of EDs from historical, clinical, and sociopsychological perspectives.

Methods. Literature review and analysis of cultural shifts in body ideals, the fashion industry’s standards, self-objectification, and social media effects.

Results. Historically, fasting was associated with spiritual virtue, but in the 20th–21st centuries, thinness has become the dominant aesthetic norm. Self-objectification and media pressure contribute to low self-esteem and increased depression rates. Aesthetic-oriented professions show elevated ED risks. Social media intensify body dissatisfaction and the pursuit of thinness, especially among adolescents.

Conclusion. Modern trends in fashion and digital culture play a significant role in the development of EDs by reinforcing unrealistic body ideals. ED prevention requires an interdisciplinary approach that accounts for social factors.

Keywords: eating disorders, self-objectification, thin ideal, social media, culture, fashion

Introduction. Workplace stress levels are shaped by both occupational conditions and individual personality traits.

Objective. To identify valid criteria for assessing workplace stress («job strain»), define predictors of stress-induced disorders, and develop practical self-assessment tools.

Methods. A long-term (2014–2024) study involving 1170 participants using surveys, psychological tests, ECG, Holter monitoring, anthropometry, and fitness tests.

Results. Gender-specific stressor profiles were identified: lack of workflow automation and supervisor contact were significant for men, while interpersonal conflicts and harassment were prominent for women. Valid assessment criteria for job strain included chronotype, self-evaluation of physical fitness, and test task motivation. Undetected hypertension and low engagement in health programs were also noted.

Conclusion. Self-assessment using validated indicators helps detect early risks of stress-induced dysfunctions. Preventing job strain requires corporate health culture and personal accountability.

Keywords: workplace stress, job strain, chronotype, physical fitness, psychosocial factors, self-assessment

Introduction. Teachers are exposed to high levels of emotional stress due to a rapidly evolving educational environment, which increases the risk of anxiety, depression, and professional burnout.

Objective. To comprehensively assess the psychosocial work environment of educators and its correlation with indicators of emotional exhaustion, anxiety, and depression.

Methods. The study involved 35 female teachers. Tools included the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire (COPSOQ), CES-D, HADS, the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI), and structured psychiatric interviews.

Results. Signs of burnout, anxiety, and depression were found in 63% of participants; clinical symptoms were confirmed in 23%. Major stressors included low control over work time, high cognitive and emotional demands, emotional suppression, and low recognition. High levels of job meaning and community did not compensate for poor work-life balance.

Conclusion. To reduce emotional stress among educators, organizational and psychological interventions are required, including management optimization, increased recognition, regular preventive programs, and support systems for teachers.

Keywords: mental health, educators, psychosocial factors, burnout, anxiety, depression, COPSOQ

Introduction. Workplace mental health issues inflict significant damage on the global economy. To identify the most effective legal solutions for mental health protection in workplace settings, it is essential to examine the legal instruments employed in this field across various jurisdictions.

Methods: The study employs systemic, comparative legal, and formal legal analysis.

Results. The research identified key factors adversely affecting workplace mental health in the UAE, China, India, and the European Union, along with their consequences. The analysis encompassed both existing and prospective legal tools aimed at fostering a supportive psychosocial work environment.

Conclusion. The most effective regulatory approaches derived from international best practices in workplace mental health protection could be adapted to enhance this field in the Russian Federation.

Keywords: workplace mental health, comparative labor law, psychosocial risks, UAE, China, India, European Union, mental well-being

Introduction. Work-related stress (WS) is a major predictor of mental health (MH) disorders among professionals, including depression, anxiety, cognitive impairment, emotional instability, and somatic symptoms.

Objective. To summarize the external and internal determinants of WS, its association with MH outcomes, and analyze current prevention strategies.

Methods. Meta-analysis of publications indexed in Scopus for the year 2024.

Results. Significant associations were identified between WS and suboptimal physical, mental, and social health indicators. Shift work, excessive workload, emotional exhaustion, technostress, workplace violence, and burnout were found to exacerbate WS symptoms. Biomarkers such as cortisol and cardiovascular risk indicators were relevant. Mobile and digital interventions demonstrated effectiveness in WS prevention.

Conclusion. WS has multifactorial effects on professionals’ MH. Prevention requires integrated programs addressing both workplace conditions and individual behavioral and biological characteristics.

Keywords: work stress, mental health, burnout, anxiety, shift work, prevention, meta-analysis

Introduction. Chronic stress, post-COVID syndrome, and professional overload have led to a growing prevalence of asthenia and burnout among physicians. The phenomenon of «quiet quitting» is emerging as a compensatory behavioral response.

Objective. To examine the dynamics of asthenia in physicians from 2021 to 2025, identify compensatory reactions, and justify the need for socio-psychological interventions.

Methods. A prospective cohort study involving 3482 physicians using focus groups, structured interviews, and the MFI-20 instrument.

Results. By 2025, only 17.8% of physicians showed no signs of asthenia. Motivation declined, and cognitive asthenia increased. «Quiet quitting» manifested as reduced engagement, minimalistic work behavior, and social withdrawal. Physicians maintained their roles while disengaging mentally and emotionally.

Conclusion. These «silent processes» of asthenia and burnout undermine healthcare delivery. Preventive strategies should include psychological support programs, self-regulation training, and a culture of mental health care within the medical profession.

Keywords: asthenia, burnout, physicians, quiet quitting, motivation, cognitive decline, MFI-20

Introduction. The emotional demands of dispatchers in emergency service «112» constitute a significant professional risk factor, contributing to anxiety, depression, and stress-induced conditions.

Objective. To identify the main psychogenic traumatic factors affecting dispatchers of the «112» service and propose measures to improve their psychological well-being.

Methods. Statistical analysis, anonymous surveys, semi-structured interviews (n=157), data on psychological consultations and sick leave, and Pearson correlation analysis.

Results. Key stressors include a constant flow of urgent information, high responsibility, emotional trauma, time pressure, shift work, false calls, and caller aggression. 92% of dispatchers sought psychological assistance; staff turnover over 4 years reached 67%. A positive correlation was found between dissatisfaction with working conditions and emotional instability. «Emotional filter breakdown» and resource depletion were reported by the 6th month of work.

Conclusion. Dispatcher work entails chronic professional distress. Preventive strategies should include regular psychological training, screening, workload optimization, and a supportive team environment.

Keywords: dispatchers, 112 emergency service, occupational stress, psychological trauma, burnout, prevention

Introduction. High emotional load and intensive interaction with patients make the development of communication skills among junior medical staff a critically important task for preventing burnout and improving the quality of medical care.

Objective. To summarize a two-year experience of conducting communication skills training and psychological support groups for junior medical staff in an emergency hospital, considering the specific features of different departments.

Methods. Analysis of practices implemented at the N.V. Sklifosovsky Research Institute for Emergency Medicine from 2023 to 2025, including stages such as orientation within departments, request formulation, diagnostics, identification of psychological targets, and selection of group work formats. Standardized tools were used (MBI, distress scale, Luscher color test), along with observation and interviews.

Results. The effectiveness of group work increased when the format was adapted to the specific department and when staff were involved in the planning process. Key psychological support targets included: developing communication strategies for complex interactions, enhancing stress resilience and professional identity, and improving team collaboration.

Conclusion. Flexible organization of training, taking into account staff rotation, work schedules, and setting, increases participant engagement and improves the psychoemotional well-being of the staff. Adapted formats of psychological support should be implemented as part of a systemic support structure for healthcare professionals.

Keywords: junior medical staff, communication skills, training, psychological support, burnout, group work

Introduction. Teacher burnout is a critical issue in contemporary educational settings. The growing psychological demands of the profession highlight the need for effective and accessible preventive methods.

Objective. To present therapeutic needlework as a tool for preventing emotional burnout in teachers, drawing on historical, cultural, and practical experience.

Methods. Historical reconstruction methods, analysis of cultural practices, and the authors’ practical experience in applying needlework techniques in preventive work with educators.

Results. Needlework activities (e.g., knitting, spinning, embroidery, scrapbooking) demonstrate therapeutic effects, such as stress reduction, emotional regulation, enhanced belonging, and intergenerational exchange. Integrating such techniques into group work with teachers helps prevent burnout and fosters effective coping strategies.

Conclusion. Therapeutic needlework can be incorporated into psychological support programs for educators as a low-cost, resource-efficient, and effective approach to mental health preservation.

Keywords: emotional burnout, teachers, prevention, therapeutic needlework, stress, creative self-realization

Introduction. Epilepsy is a chronic condition frequently accompanied by somatic comorbidities that can significantly impair patients’ work ability.

Objective. To analyze the structure of somatic comorbidity in epilepsy patients and its relationship to disability and work capacity.

Methods. The study included 317 patients with epilepsy aged 18–65. Clinical, psychopathological, pathopsychological, and instrumental methods were used, along with analysis of medical records.

Results. Somatic comorbidities were found in 53% of patients, with 94% of them having more than one comorbid condition. Cardiovascular diseases were the most prevalent. Age- and gender-specific differences were identified, as well as correlations between comorbidity levels and disability or employment status.

Conclusion. The high prevalence of somatic comorbid disorders in epilepsy patients highlights the need for regular screening and their consideration in rehabilitation and disability assessment planning.

Keywords: epilepsy, comorbidity, work capacity, disability, somatic diseases, quality of life

Introduction. University teachers experience high emotional stress due to increasing workload, educational digitalization, and constant interaction with students. These factors contribute to the risk of burnout, anxiety, and reduced job satisfaction.

Objective. To assess the effectiveness of interpersonal therapy (IPT) skills in preventing negative emotional states among university faculty.

Methods. A 12-week experimental program involving 15 university instructors was implemented, focusing on the development of emotional intelligence and interpersonal communication skills. Validated scales were used pre- and post-intervention to assess burnout, stress, job satisfaction, emotional resilience, EQ, and professional identity.

Results. Statistically significant improvements were observed across most indicators, including reduced burnout and anxiety, increased job satisfaction, emotional resilience, emotional intelligence, and a stronger sense of professional identity.

Conclusion. Interpersonal therapy skills are an effective means of preventing emotional disorders in university faculty and can be recommended for inclusion in psychological support programs in higher education.

Keywords: interpersonal therapy, emotional burnout, university teachers, emotional intelligence, stress, prevention

Introduction. With increasing emotional demands in the workforce, workplace-related anxiety has become a critical issue in occupational mental health.

Objective. To assess the prevalence of workplace anxiety in the Russian population and identify behavioral correlates and group differences by occupation and gender.

Methods. The study included 410 employees. The Job Anxiety Scale (JAS) and SCL-90-R questionnaire were used. Statistical analysis employed the Mann–Whitney U-test.

Results. Clinical-level workplace anxiety was found in 2.9% of respondents; subclinical in 27.8%. Avoidant behavior was reported by 9.5%. Anxiety was associated with absenteeism, overtime, and sick leave. No gender differences were found. IT specialists showed higher workplace social anxiety and inefficacy cognitions compared to medical professionals (p<0.05).

Conclusion. Workplace anxiety represents a distinct clinical-psychological phenomenon requiring specialized diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.

Keywords: workplace anxiety, JAS, social anxiety, inefficacy cognitions, IT professionals, medical workers, behavioral markers

Introduction. Healthcare professionals are at high risk of anxiety, depression, and stress-related conditions due to intense workloads, responsibility, and emotional strain.

Objective. To assess the mental health status of staff in one department of the Republican Clinical Psychiatric Hospital named after V.M. Bekhterev and to identify effective prevention and intervention strategies.

Methods. The study included 58 employees: 17 physicians, 23 nurses, and 18 junior staff. Six validated diagnostic tools were used, including the Beck Depression Inventory, Spielberger–Khanin Anxiety Scale, Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI), and Bodrov’s cognitive stress test.

Results. Emotional exhaustion was found in 72% of participants; 68% reported high anxiety; 41% showed signs of moderate to severe depression. Nurses and junior staff were the most vulnerable groups. Significant correlations were identified between anxiety, burnout, and subjective well-being.

Conclusion. Sustaining mental health among medical professionals requires a systemic approach: regular screening, workload optimization, stress management programs, and team-building initiatives. These measures improve job satisfaction, reduce clinical error risks, and enhance the overall quality of care.

Keywords: mental health, healthcare workers, anxiety, burnout, stress, prevention, subjective well-being