MENTAL HEALTH IN THE TECH INDUSTRY: INSIGHTS FROM SURVEYS AND NLP ANALYSIS

Sanjaikanth E Vadakkethil Somanathan Pillai; Kiran Polimetla; Rajiv Avacharmal; Arun Pandiyan Perumal

doi:10.70589/JRTCSE.2022.2.3

Authors

Sanjaikanth E Vadakkethil Somanathan Pillai School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University Of North Dakota, Grand Forks, North Dakota, USA Author
Kiran Polimetla Dept. of Information Technology, Adobe Inc., Austin, Texas, USA Author
Rajiv Avacharmal Center for Data Science and Artificial intelligence, New York Life Insurance Company, Farmington Hills, Michigan, USA Author
Arun Pandiyan Perumal Dept. of Information Technology and Management Illinois Institute of Technology United States of America Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.70589/JRTCSE.2022.2.3

Keywords:

Mental health, Technology sector, OSMI survey, Anxiety

Abstract

This study examines the mental health challenges faced by professionals in the technology sector, using data from the Open-Source Mental Illness (OSMI) surveys conducted between 2014 and 2019. By applying both quantitative analysis and Natural Language Processing (NLP) techniques, the research identifies trends in mental health disorders, attitudes, and support systems across various demographic groups and job roles. Key findings indicate a rise in conditions like anxiety, depression, and burnout, particularly among developers and DevOps professionals. Additionally, disparities in mental health support were evident, with African American employees, women, and non-binary individuals receiving less assistance. Remote and hybrid work arrangements were associated with better mental health outcomes, while non-remote workers experienced higher levels of stress. This study provides actionable insights for tech companies to enhance mental health resources, promote work-life balance, and offer targeted support for high-risk groups.