Predictors of depression, anxiety and stress symptoms among maternity nurses and midwives in a Middle Eastern country

This study assessed anxiety, depression, and stress levels among midwives and maternity nurses in Oman using the DASS-21 questionnaire in a cross-sectional survey of 200 participants from three public hospitals. Results indicated that 27.0% experienced mild to moderate depression, while 33.5% and 32% reported mild to moderate anxiety and stress, respectively. No severe cases were observed, but the findings highlight significant predictors such as sleep quality, job satisfaction, caseload per shift, age, and working area. These factors were significantly associated with the mental health outcomes measured. The study underscores the importance of addressing the psychological and emotional well-being of midwives and maternity nurses through targeted support and interventions, given the substantial percentage experiencing mild to moderate symptoms. Continuous efforts are essential to mitigate these issues and promote a healthier work environment for these healthcare professionals.