Job satisfaction and its link with mental health in Catalonia

Abstract

The relationship between job satisfaction and mental health is an object of intense research. The present study aims to determine the existence of a statically significant relationship between job satisfaction and mental health in the Catalan workforce. Through the use of multiple OLS regression models drawing data from the ESCA survey conducted twice per year by the Health Department of Catalonia to its population. It was found that being satisfied with your current job position is negatively correlated to an increase in the risk of developing poor mental health. We used in this study the renowned index GHQ-12, which is used to identify psychiatric disorders in the general population. In addition, the correlation between variables holds true when accounting for different measurements of mental and a logistic model. Furthermore, we identified factors that further exacerbate the detriment of mental health like a worsening of working conditions. Although a reverse causality between variables cannot be ruled out, our results help deepen the understanding between the Catalan workforce and their health which could contribute to reducing mental disorders and the issuance of public policies to prevent them. Bachelor