Emotional and sleep problems and their associated factors among specialized operation personnel on surface vessels

To investigate the prevalence of anxiety, depression, and sleep problems among specialized operation personnel on surface vessels, and to analyze their influencing factors.

A total of 600 participants were randomly selected. Basic demographic and occupational information was collected using a general information questionnaire. The Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS), and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) were administered to assess anxiety, depression, and sleep quality.

Spearman correlation analysis indicated that anxiety symptoms was associated with years of service (r = 0.130, P = 0.001), family residence (r = -0.153, P < 0.001), and sleep quality (r = 0.199, P < 0.001). Depression symptoms was associated with parental relationship (r = -0.134, P = 0.001), family residence (r = -0.144, P < 0.001), and sleep quality (r = 0.122, P < 0.05). Binary logistic regression further showed that PSQI was associated with anxiety (OR = 2.187, P = 0.001). All PSQI subscales were correlated with SAS and SDS total scores (P < 0.05).

Sleep and emotional problems are prevalent among specialized operation personnel on surface vessels. Greater attention should be given to the psychological health of subgroups at higher risk, such as older individuals, those with rural backgrounds, and those with longer years of service. Routine psychological screening is recommended for this population.