Role of Physical Activity in Managing Occupational Stress Among Healthcare Workers in Enugu State

Occupational stress among healthcare workers carries significant implications for professional performance, staff retention, patient care quality, and individual wellbeing. This study examines the role of physical activity in managing occupational stress among healthcare workers in government hospitals in Enugu State, South East Nigeria. A cross-sectional descriptive survey was conducted among 280 healthcare workers including nurses, physicians, laboratory scientists, and health records personnel from four government hospitals. The Health Stress Inventory and Global Physical Activity Questionnaire were administered to assess occupational stress levels and physical activity participation respectively. Multiple regression analysis examined the relationship between physical activity level and occupational stress scores after controlling for demographic variables and job category. Findings reveal that 67 percent of respondents report high or very high occupational stress levels, with nurses and emergency department personnel recording the highest scores. Regular physical activity participation is reported by only 31 percent of respondents and is significantly negatively associated with occupational stress scores. Healthcare workers meeting weekly physical activity recommendations report 28 percent lower mean stress scores than inactive counterparts. Time constraints, fatigue after shifts, and lack of facilities near workplaces are the most cited barriers to exercise. Recommendations include establishing workplace fitness facilities at government hospitals, institutionalising structured physical activity breaks during shifts, and developing hospital staff wellness programmes incorporating exercise prescription. Keywords: physical activity, occupational stress, healthcare workers, Enugu State, wellness