Assessment of Depression and Job Satisfaction among Information Technology Professionals with Long Working Hours in Silicon Valley of India: A Cross-sectional Community-based Study

Abstract Introduction: This study aimed to estimate the impact of long working hours among Information Technology (IT) professionals. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional online community-based study was conducted in Urban Bangaluru. Data were collected by a convenient sampling technique from 150 study subjects who were IT professionals using a pre-designed structured pro forma by sharing Google Forms online. Multivariate logistic regression was used to analyse the relationship between long working hours, depression, job satisfaction and comorbidities. Results: Out of 150 participants surveyed, 84 (56%) had working hours per week ≥48 h. The majority, 87 (58.0%) of study subjects had ambivalent attitudes towards their job satisfaction. There was a significant statistical association between depression, alcohol consumption, tobacco usage, comorbidities, job satisfaction and working hours. Conclusions: Long working hours were associated with a higher likelihood of depression, alcohol consumption, tobacco usage, comorbidities and job dissatisfaction. Implementation of effective policies regarding working hours and the management of psychosocial working conditions among IT professionals can be a successful way to reduce psychosocial stress responses and improve their physical, mental and social health. Prioritisation of workplace-related health promotion programmes is crucial.