Korean J Occup Environ Med.  2011 Jun;23(2):139-148.

The Relationship between the Experience of an Accident and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder in Bus Drivers

• Choi WS
• Cho SA
• Kim KY
• Cho YS
• Koo JW
• Kim HR

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
Mental fitness issues have recently become a point of dispute in the field of health. Drivers are occupationally in danger of a possible accident, and are also exposed to other factors aside from accidents that threaten their mental health. The purpose of this research is to examine the level and state of post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and overall mental fitness in bus drivers. In addition, we wish to understand the various causes that can influence PTSD.
METHODS
From April 1 to June 30, 2009, taking the region and number of workers into consideration, survey sheets were distributed to selected bus drivers who belonged to the public transportation union. The questionnaire included questions on experiences, details of accidents, the characteristics of the working environment, and the status of mental health. We used the Davidson Trauma Scale to investigate PTSD symptoms and the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale to evaluate depression.
RESULTS
Regardless of the type of accident, the group of bus drivers with accident experience showed stronger signs of suffering from PTSD. It seemed that the experience of an accident that caused the death of passengers or conflict with passengers were important factors for PTSD. Within the PTSD group, we found more symptoms of depression, and also this group is more likely to take time off work.
CONCLUSIONS
The experience of an accident threatens the mental health of bus drivers. Since bus drivers are responsible for the safety of many citizens, we must work towards finding ways to protect their mental health.

Keyword

Bus drivers; Post traumatic stress disorder; Accident; Conflict with passengers

MeSH Terms

Depression
Dissent and Disputes
Epidemiologic Studies
Mental Health
Occupations
Questionnaires
Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic
Stress Disorders, Traumatic
Stress, Psychological
Transportation