Predictors of sleep quality in the Swiss alpine rescue service

Abstract

Introduction: Sleep 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. Methods: Using 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). Results: Only 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. Conclusion: Our 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.

Keywords

• Alpine rescue service
• Sleep quality
• Mental health
• Stress