Profile and Mental Health of Speech Language Pathologists and Audiologists in a Northeast Capital of Brazil

Abstract

Health professionals do not recognize that they are liable to physical and mental illnesses. Objective: to describe the profile and mental health of speech language pathologists and audiologists from a northeastern capital of Brazil. Method: descriptive transversal study using the Saúde Mental dos Profissionais de Saúde (mental health of health professionals) questionnaire. The analysis included: socioeconomic characteristics, professional commitment, working conditions, sexuality, family/social life, use of alcohol and drugs, general health condition, mental stress and suffering. The population consisted of speech language pathologists and audiologists from all public and private services in a northeastern capital of Brazil. The data was analyzed in a descriptive manner. Results: The population consisted of 36 speech language pathologists and audiologists, mainly women, aged between 31 and 40, who had graduated up to 10 years before the study. The data showed that the majority of the population has health insurance patients. One third considers their earnings unsatisfactory. The majority works for 8 to 14 hours per day on 5 to 6 days per week, and some do not remember their last medical exam. Some reported to drink alcohol on a weekly basis, others to have been drunk at least once during the last year. Concerning their relationships, some reported to have been unfaithful, while a great part show risk behavior for extramarital affairs. It was found that the population suffers from phobias, panic syndrome, and, partly, depression. Some participants have even considered suicide. Conclusion: For the population in question, the study revealed evidence of mental suffering and the necessity of major health care and investments.