Introduction
The aim of this study is to describe the associations between depressive symptoms and some working conditions according to
broad occupational categories in France.
Methods
These data came from the decennial health survey conducted in 2003 in France by the National Institute for Statistics and
Economics Studies (6,082 men, 5,521 women). The data collected included: depressive symptoms (Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression
Scale), psychosocial factors at work and potential confounding factors.
Results
Associations between psychosocial work factors and depressive symptoms varied, according to occupational category and sex.
Time pressure was significantly associated with depressive symptoms in the less advantaged occupational categories. The lack
of job control was associated with depressive symptoms only in managers and associate professionals and technicians. Only
low social support was systematically associated with depressive symptoms, regardless of occupational category.
Conclusion
These results should be taken into account to adapt strategies of mental health disorders prevention at work, for a better
efficacy.
Keywords Mental health - Occupational category - Psychosocial working factors