Determinants of mental health distress among health workers in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Healthcare workers (HCWs) remain at elevated risk of psychological distress, yet post-pandemic evidence from the United Arab Emirates is scarce. This cross-sectional electronic survey assessed depression, anxiety, and stress among physicians and nurses providing direct clinical care across Abu Dhabi Health Services Company in March 2024. Mental health outcomes were measured using the DASS-21, and multivariable logistic regression identified associated factors. Among 383 HCWs (mean age 40.8 years; 70% female; 65% nurses), the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress was 49%, 45%, and 46%, respectively. Middle Eastern HCWs had significantly higher odds of depression (Adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR)=1.94; 95% CI: 1.13–3.35), anxiety (aOR=1.80; 95% CI: 1.03–3.21), and stress (aOR=2.42; 95% CI: 1.37–4.33) compared with Asian HCWs. Workplace conflict strongly predicted distress as conflicts with colleagues increased the odds of depression (aOR=3.36; 95% CI: 1.92–6.05), anxiety (aOR=1.99; 95% CI: 1.14–3.53), and stress (aOR=3.78; 95% CI: 2.10–7.00). Chronic fatigue was associated with depression (aOR=4.21; 95% CI: 1.61–13.2), anxiety (aOR=3.89; 95% CI: 1.39–13.8), and stress (aOR=3.34; 95% CI: 1.32–9.63). Protective factors included age ≥40 years for stress (aOR=0.61; 95% CI: 0.39–0.96) and postgraduate education for anxiety (aOR=0.55; 95% CI: 0.31–0.94) with nurses had lower stress than physicians (aOR=0.47; 95% CI: 0.23–0.94). Post-pandemic mental-health symptoms remain substantial among Abu Dhabi HCWs, particularly younger providers and those exposed to workplace conflict or chronic fatigue. Sustained mental-health programs, routine screening, and targeted support for high-risk groups are urgently required to protect clinician well-being and healthcare system resilience.