Introduction Stress-related disorders are frequently reported in the working population, with varying incidence rates of 13% for psychological distress up to 22% for emotional exhaustion with even higher prevalence rates in specific professions and countries. The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to examine which work-related psychosocial risk factors are associated with stress-related disorders (SRDs).

Methods We searched the electronic databases of Medline, Embase and PsycINFO for articles published between 2008 and 12 August 2019 and included the references of a systematic review performed for the period before 2008. Primary longitudinal studies were included when outcome data were described in terms of SRD assessment or a dichotomous outcome, based on a validated questionnaire, and at least two levels of work-related exposure were reported. The selection of the work-related risk factors in the meta-analyses was based on: (1) sufficient contrast between reported exposure categories; (2) effect estimates controlled for other non-work-related factors; 3) homogeneity in definition or measurement of risk factors. The quality of evidence was assessed using the Grades of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation framework.

Result Seventeen studies met the inclusion criteria. The meta-analysis revealed moderate evidence for associations between SRDs and effort reward imbalance (OR=1.9, 95% CI 1.70–2.15), high job demands (OR=1.6, 95% CI 1.41- 1.72), organisational justice (OR’s 1.6 to 1.7, CI’s 1.44–1.86), social support (OR’s 1.3 to 1.4, CI’s 1.16–1.69), high emotional demands (OR=1.6, 95% CI 1.35–1.84), and decision authority (OR=1.3, CI 1.20–1.49). No significant or inconsistent associations were found for job insecurity, decision latitude, skill discretion and bullying.

Conclusion Moderate evidence was found that work-related psychosocial risk factors are associated with a higher risk of SRDs. Effort-reward imbalance, low organisational justice and high job demands exhibited the largest increased risk of SRDs, varying from 60 to 90%.