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Tools for Assessing Mental Health Conditions at Work: A Scoping Review



Khanlari P1 ; Soleimani L2 ; Noorbalatafti A3 ; Amouzadeh E4 ; Zakarian SA1
Authors
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Authors Affiliations
  1. 1. Department of Occupational Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
  2. 2. Department of Ergonomics, School of Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
  3. 3. Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Psychosomatic Medicine Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
  4. 4. Department of Ergonomics, School of Health, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran

Source: Journal of Health and Safety at Work Published:2025

Abstract

Introduction: Mental health in the workplace is a critical concern that influences both employee well-being and organizational productivity. However, issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, and burnout can significantly impair job performance and overall quality of life. While numerous tools have been developed to assess mental health, many are not specifically designed or updated for work environments. As the complexity of the workplace continues to increase, accurate identification and evaluation of these conditions become increasingly essential. This study aims to review available tools and identify the most effective methods for screening and assessing mental health issues in the workplace. Material and Methods: A scoping review approach was employed to identify mental health assessment tools applicable to workplace settings. The PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and Scopus databases were searched using keywords related to mental health at work. Studies published after 2020 were included, with a focus on tools developed and validated for work environments. Two authors independently extracted and reviewed data from the selected studies. Tools were categorized based on their objectives and specific characteristics. Results: After screening, 12 studies were selected from an initial set of 746 papers. The extracted tools were designed to assess stress, anxiety, depression, and burnout. While most tools were originally developed for general settings or the public, some were tailored to specific occupational groups, such as military personnel and healthcare workers. Burnout assessment tools were the most frequently referenced category. Conclusion: Newer tools, such as the Work Stress Screener, Occupational Depression Inventory, and Burnout Assessment Tool, offer potential advantages over older instruments. Shorter, specialized tools are recommended for effectively assessing job-related anxiety. Organizations should prioritize selecting tools that align with their employees’ specific working conditions to promote mental health and productivity. © 2025 The Authors.
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