The Relationship between the Experience of an Accident and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder in Bus Drivers.
- Author:
Won Seon CHOI
1
;
Sung Ae CHO
;
Kyeong Yeon KIM
;
Young Seung CHO
;
Jung Wan KOO
;
Hyoung Ryoul KIM
Author Information
1. Department of Occupational & Environmental Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, Korea.
- Publication Type:Original Article
- Keywords:
Bus drivers;
Post traumatic stress disorder;
Accident;
Conflict with passengers
- MeSH:
Depression;
Dissent and Disputes;
Epidemiologic Studies;
Mental Health;
Occupations;
Questionnaires;
Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic;
Stress Disorders, Traumatic;
Stress, Psychological;
Transportation
- From:Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine
2011;23(2):139-148
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
Abstract:
OBJECTIVES: Mental fitness issues have recently become a point of dispute in the field of health. Drivers are occupationally in danger of a possible accident, and are also exposed to other factors aside from accidents that threaten their mental health. The purpose of this research is to examine the level and state of post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and overall mental fitness in bus drivers. In addition, we wish to understand the various causes that can influence PTSD. METHODS: From April 1 to June 30, 2009, taking the region and number of workers into consideration, survey sheets were distributed to selected bus drivers who belonged to the public transportation union. The questionnaire included questions on experiences, details of accidents, the characteristics of the working environment, and the status of mental health. We used the Davidson Trauma Scale to investigate PTSD symptoms and the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale to evaluate depression. RESULTS: Regardless of the type of accident, the group of bus drivers with accident experience showed stronger signs of suffering from PTSD. It seemed that the experience of an accident that caused the death of passengers or conflict with passengers were important factors for PTSD. Within the PTSD group, we found more symptoms of depression, and also this group is more likely to take time off work. CONCLUSIONS: The experience of an accident threatens the mental health of bus drivers. Since bus drivers are responsible for the safety of many citizens, we must work towards finding ways to protect their mental health.
