Predictors of Anxiety and Depression in Nurses: The Role of Social Capital Publisher



Khosrooabadi FJ ; Kheirabadi G ; Heidari Z ; Maracy MR
Source: Journal of Education and Health Promotion Published:2025

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Nursing is recognized as a highly demanding profession, often leading to psychological issues such as stress, anxiety, hopelessness, and depression. Social capital, defined as the network of relationships and social trust among individuals and groups, can influence interactions with organizations and social institutions, potentially affecting mood disorders. This study aims to explore the relationship between social capital, anxiety, and depression among nurses in private and public sectors in Isfahan city in 2022. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in 2022, including nurses from both private and public hospitals in Isfahan. A total sample of 350 nurses, with 110 from private and 240 from public hospitals, were participated. Data collection instruments included demographic forms, Putnam’s Social Capital Questionnaire, and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 20, employing descriptive statistics, Chi-square test, independent t-test, Mann–Whitney U test, and ordinal logistic regression. RESULTS: The findings revealed no significant difference in anxiety and depression levels between nurses in private and public hospitals (P > 0.05). However, cognitive social capital was significantly associated with depression (P < 0.05), where higher cognitive component scores were linked to a reduced likelihood of anxiety at lower levels. Additionally, the extra group social capital component was significantly correlated with anxiety (P < 0.05), with higher extra group scores associated with a lower likelihood of depression at lower levels. CONCLUSION: Improving social capital components, such as cognitive and extra group social capital, could potentially help reduce anxiety and depression among nurses. Integrating social capital development into nursing management and training practices may offer a beneficial strategy for mental health support. © 2025 Journal of Education and Health Promotion.