Socioecological Models of Mental Health

Wider research context / theoretical framework: The project will systematically examine mental health among individuals in some of society`s critical professions involved in complex crises (i.e., healthcare, military, police). There is increased risk for occupational burnout, anxiety, and depression following periods of prolonged stress and long work hours faced by individuals in critical professions involved in complex crises. A multidimensional perspective on risk for critical professions is needed to improve future preparedness and support resilience among such important sectors of society during and following crises. Hypotheses/research questions /objectives: The main aim of this project is to develop and test a socioecological model of the factors influencing stress, burnout, anxiety, PTSD and depression in the (post)covid pandemic period among the individuals in critical professions. We hypothesize that the both unique and shared risk factors will be identified at different socioecological levels, which will serve to inform preparedness within and across ecological levels. Approach/methods: This project consists of six work packages implemented in Slovenia and Austria in parallel. The project includes expert interviews with stakeholders within organizations to develop and inform models (N = 60) as well as a prospective four time point study of risk factors for mental health among individuals in critical professions (N = 600). In addition, the project involves historical policy analyses of the pandemic response since 2020 in both countries. Level of originality / innovation: The two-country design allows for analysis at the policy level and integrates retrospective and prospective research designs to study mental health within and across countries and professions. This project has potential to lead to innovation in understanding mental health among professions involved in a crisis period by improving on past research designs through systematic integration and coordination of multiple levels of analysis that is often neglected in mental health research. Primary researchers involved: The Slovenian team will involve experts in military sociology, public heath, sociology, and research methods from three institutions; namely University of Ljubljana, Peace Institute and National Institute for Public Health. The Austrian team from the University of Klagenfurt, will complement the project with expertise in socioecological models in organizations, gender studies, mental health, and advanced data analytical techniques, as well as international health comparison research expertise.