Epidemiological profile of work-related mental disorders in Paraíba from 2015-2023

Since the 1990s, the increase in work-related psychiatric complaints in Brazil, including in Paraíba-PB, highlights the relationship between work and illness. Data were collected on work-related mental disorders in Paraíba. This study aims to provide a comprehensive epidemiological analysis of work-related mental disorders in Paraíba, seeking to identify trends and risk factors. Using data from the IT Department of SUS-DATASUS (2015-2023), an ecological study was adopted to evaluate aspects such as age group, race, sex, occupation, diagnosis, evolution, issuance of Work Accident Report (CAT) and absence due to wear. The analysis reveals significant trends: the most affected age group is 40-60 years old (50.24%), with an increase among workers aged 20-39 years old (175.86%). Predominance of cases in mixed race (51.86%), with an increase of 1016.67%. Higher prevalence in women (77.87%), with 2.26 times more absences (69.37%). Neurotic and mood disorders were the most common (87%), progressing to temporary disability in 84% of cases. There was an increase in the issuance of CAT (215.38%), but 54.44% were not notified. Elementary school teachers were the most affected (27.97%). The increase in notifications among brown individuals may be associated with the growing recognition and acceptance of racial self-declaration. Female predominance reiterates the social overload of gender, resulting in physical and mental exhaustion. Furthermore, the prevalence of mood disorders in workers with multiple assignments and low pay suggests a possible relationship with continuous exposure to specific stressors. The urgency of interventions to promote the mental health of workers, especially women and mixed race, is highlighted. The lack of psychological support can lead to temporary or permanent disabilities. Multidisciplinary actions are essential to preserve mental health and improve the quality of life in the workplace in Paraíba.