Conclusions
Although high, the prevalence of common mental disorders was lower than that described in the literature. The implementation of mental care programs for state civil servants would be essential to reduce the prevalence and absenteeism due to common mental disorders.
Methods
A prison unit was selected for the administration of the Self-Reporting Questionnaire-20 and a questionnaire to assess the sociodemographic profile of employees. The questionnaires were filled out in electronic format and made available on computers in the selected unit. Two visits were made to the unit to assess the work environment and to listen workers' reports.
Objective
To assess the prevalence of common mental disorders among prison workers in the state of São Paulo, Brazil.
Results
Fifty-three questionnaires were selected, of which 50 were included in the research. According to the Self-Reporting Questionnaire-20, 34% of participants had positive results for CMD. The use of psychotropic drugs and less family support were statistically correlated with common mental disorders. The apparently small number of employees in the unit was considered a more harmful factor to work than personal contact with prisoners. Conclusions: Although high, the prevalence of common mental disorders was lower than that described in the literature. The implementation of mental care programs for state civil servants would be essential to reduce the prevalence and absenteeism due to common mental disorders.