Investigation of the Correlation Between Aspects of Sexuality, Self-Esteem, Anxiety, and Depression in Health Professionals in Central Greece.

backgroundSexuality is a multidimensional aspect of human functioning that is closely linked to mental health. Among healthcare professionals, high emotional demands, irregular schedules, and burnout can disrupt both psychological balance and sexual well-being. However, research exploring this intersection in clinical populations remains limited, especially in Greece. This study aims to examine the associations between aspects of sexuality, self-esteem, anxiety, and depression, as well as demographic and occupational differences. METHODOLOGY: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 202 healthcare professionals working in primary, secondary, and tertiary care units in Central Greece. Participants included physicians, nurses, and allied health professionals, such as pharmacists. Five validated psychometric instruments were used: the Sexuality Scale, the Brief Sexual Attitudes Scale, the Satisfaction With Sex Life Scale, the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, and the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales-21 (DASS-21). Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, Pearson correlations, t-tests, ANOVA, and multiple linear regression. Age groups were categorized as 20 to 29, 30 to 39, and ≥40 years. Educational level was classified as undergraduate (basic university degree) or postgraduate (MSc/PhD).

resultsParticipants reported moderate levels of sexual confidence (mean (M)=8.52), low sexual preoccupation (M=-1.95), and moderate sexual satisfaction (M=4.50). Sexuality was positively correlated with self-esteem (r=0.35, p<0.01) and negatively correlated with anxiety (r= -0.30, p<0.01) and depression (r= -0.28, p<0.01). Women reported lower sexual confidence and self-esteem and higher sexual preoccupation compared to men. Physicians scored higher on sexuality and self-esteem than nurses and pharmacists. Postgraduate participants showed higher means across psychological and sexual indicators. No significant differences were observed by age group.

conclusionsThis study underscores the strong interplay between self-esteem and psychological symptoms in relation to sexuality among healthcare professionals. Self-esteem emerged as the most robust positive predictor of sexuality, while anxiety and depression were significant negative predictors. Notable differences were also observed based on gender, profession, and education level. These findings suggest the need for integrated mental health and sexual wellness initiatives tailored to clinical staff. Importantly, this is the first known study to explore these relationships among healthcare professionals in Central Greece, providing a valuable foundation for future research and intervention planning.