The Relationship between mental health and social support in health staffs of Bushehr oil industry

This study evaluated the relationship between social support, mental health and also demographic factors in health staffs of Bushehr oil industry in 2006. This cross-sectional descriptive study enrolled all health staffs, except 9 subjects who refuse to participate (108 male and 41 female). Subjects were evaluated by demographic questionnaire, general health Questionnaire-28 and Social Support Scale. Statistical analysis was performed by two sample t test, ANOVA and Pearson correlation coefficient. This study showed that female gender, 35-44 age range group, having college educations, marital status and families with 4-5 members have higher mental health and social support. Onshore shiftworker staffs in comparison with others have lower mental health and social support. Social support and mental health showed a direct and significant correlation. The changes of policies for promoting quality and quantity of supportive networks, especially for vulnerable staffs, can reinforce protective effects of social support.