Association of Physical Health Indices with Antidepressant and/or Anxiolytic Use in Former US Coal Miners

J Occup Environ Med. 2025 Jul 15. doi: 10.1097/JOM.0000000000003505. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: Most health research on coal miners has focused primarily on cardio-respiratory health and injuries, despite the presence of significant risk factors for poor mental health in the industry, including illness and pain, traumatic experiences, and socio-economic stressors.

METHODS: Clinical and occupational data from coal miners examined in a West Virginia clinic between 2004-2015 was used to examine associations between physical indicators of health and antidepressant/anxiolytic medication use (proxy for depression/anxiety) through multivariable models.

RESULTS: Antidepressant/anxiolytic use was prevalent (33%) in this population. Lung function impairment, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, chronic pain, and trauma significantly increased the odds of antidepressant/anxiolytic medication use.

CONCLUSIONS: This study reveals a high burden of depression and/or anxiety among U.S. coal miners and underscores the importance of evaluating this workforce for their mental health, which has largely been ignored to date.

PMID:40663391 | DOI:10.1097/JOM.0000000000003505