The relationship between working conditions and the levels of smoking addiction, anxiety, and depression symptoms among humanitarian aid sector professionals engaged with migrants: an example of adana province

This thesis aims to examine the relationship between working conditions and the levels of depression, anxiety, and nicotine dependence among humanitarian sector professionals working with migrants in the field in Adana. The study evaluated data collected from 167 participants, including those working directly with migrants in the field in Adana and those in off-field positions outside Adana, all of whom were active nicotine users. The data collection process involved the use of the Beck Depression and Anxiety Scales, the Fagerström Nicotine Dependence Test, and a demographic questionnaire, with the surveys administered via Google Forms in accordance with CHERRIES standards. Findings revealed that the depression and anxiety scores of fieldworkers were significantly higher (p<0.01) compared to those of non-fieldworkers and that those who reported being affected by stressful working conditions in the field had significantly higher nicotine dependence scores compared to those who reported not being affected (p<0.001). Regression analyses indicated that levels of depression and anxiety symptoms could significantly predict nicotine dependence (R²=0.17; p<0.001). Employees who perceived their workload in the field as excessive had significantly higher depression, anxiety, and nicotine dependence scores than other groups (p<0.001). Moreover, participants who stated they lacked job security and workplace support mechanisms had significantly higher depression and nicotine dependence scores. A limitation of this study is the lack of assessment of participants' psychological states and nicotine use habits prior to the research. Nevertheless, this study contributes to the literature as one of the few investigations examining the relationship between addiction and working conditions in the humanitarian aid sector. In light of the findings, developing workload management and psychological support programs for fieldworkers, enhancing workplace social support mechanisms, and strengthening job security are identified as critical factors for addressing nicotine dependence among humanitarian aid workers in the migration sector. Keywords: humanitarian aid workers, depression, anxiety, working conditions, nicotine dependence.