Predictors of sleep quality in the Swiss alpine rescue service

Abstract

IntroductionSleep is a prerequisite for mental health, but data are lacking with regard to sleep quality in voluntary emergency and rescue workers. In this analysis of data from a larger study, we assess sleep quality and explore possible risk and protective factors of Swiss alpine rescue personnel. MethodsUsing data from an online survey of 465 mountain rescuers, we estimated sleep quality with the Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Participants additionally completed the PTSD Checklist-5 (PCL-5), the Perceived Stress Scale-10 (PSS-10) and the General Health Questionnaire-12 (GHQ-12). ResultsOnly 14% of the participants indicated poor sleep quality. Moreover, higher scores on the GHQ-12, PCL-5, and PSS-10 emerged as risk factors for poor sleep quality. ConclusionOur results indicate a good sleep quality in Swiss alpine rescue personnel. Risk factors for poor sleep quality were poorer general mental health, the presence of PTSD symptoms, and higher perceived stress.