THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN WORKLOAD AND USE OF ANXIOLYTICS AND ANTIDEPRESSANTS IN NURSING: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW

Abstract

Introduction: Nursing professionals face high levels of stress and overload at work, which can affect their mental health and lead to the use of anxiolytics and antidepressants. However, the relationship between workload and the use of these drugs is still not completely clear. Objective: This study aims to explore the relationship between nurses' workload and the use of anxiolytics and antidepressants, in addition to identifying the main factors that influence this use. Methodology: An integrative literature review was carried out, with a search in the PubMed and CINAHL databases, using specific descriptors. The studies were selected based on the relationship between workload and medication use, and analyzed for quality and relevance. Conclusion: The data suggest a significant association between high workload and the use of psychotropic drugs, highlighting factors such as long working hours and high demand in the health environment. The review suggests that work overload is linked to the use of anxiolytics and antidepressants by nurses, reinforcing the need for interventions to improve working conditions and support the mental health of these professionals.