Mental Health Disorders and Suicidal Behaviors Among Provincial Correctional Workers

Abstract

Objective: We examined the prevalence of mental health disorders and suicidal behaviors (ideation, planning, and attempts) among a sample of provincial correctional workers in Manitoba. Methods: Self-reported mental health data from a survey on correctional worker mental health and well-being were analyzed for 491 correctional workers. Results: Over half (57%) of respondents screened positive for mental health disorder, most commonly major depressive disorder, and over one-third of respondents (37%) screened positive for more than one disorder. Positive mental health screens for all mental health disorders were associated with statistically significantly increased odds of lifetime suicidal ideation, and positive screens for most disorders were associated with past year suicidal ideation. Conclusions: Relative to other public safety personnel and the general public, correctional workers appear have a higher prevalence of mental health disorders and suicidal behaviors. The association between positive screens for mental health disorders and suicidal behaviors highlights the vulnerability of correctional workers in regards to mental well-being.