Psychological Effects of Occupational Exposure to Electromagnetic Fields

Background: In psychological studies, exposure to electromagnetic field is one of the hazardous factors, which has adverse effects on mental health. Exposure to electromagnetic field due to daily use of electricity makes this study so important. The goal of this study was to determine the relationship between psychological symptoms and occupational exposure to electromagnetic field among workers at High Voltage Substations. Methods: Sampling included 103 workers at High Voltage Substations in Tehran city. The prevalence of psychological symptoms was evaluated among electrical workers and the SCL90-R questioner completed during an interview. The control group was not occupationally exposed to electromagnetic fields or not residence of transmission line. Results: This study indicated increased symptoms including depression, anxiety, hostility, paranoia, interpersonal- sensitivity, and obsession- compulsion among exposed workers. A significant relationship was observed between the exposure of electromagnetic field and psychological symptoms (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Exposure to electromagnetic field increased the risk of disorders in susceptible workers. For mental disorders, especially depression, the cognitive therapy is suggested.