Background. -By use of valid questionnaires to investigate work-related stress and distress in Danish managers.

Methods. - The survey focused on members of the Danish Association of Managers and Executives who no longer were active (formermanagers' group). Acting managers (active managers' group) served as controls. Questionnaires measuring stressors at work and general life events were used. For the measurement of distress, scales for depression and quality of life were used.

Results. - The Mokken analysis proved the validity of the questionnaires, i.e. their summed-up total scores were sufficient statistics. No differences were found between former (n = 1256) and active managers (n = 942) as to life events. Approximately 20% of former managers were at risk of depression and 12% had developed major depression. Among the specific work-related stressors were role overload, lack of team spirit and lack of social support. The percentage of active managers at risk of or suffering from major depression did not differ significantly from the Danish general population. Approximately 37% of the former managers had a decreased well-being. Alcohol use was found to be significantly associated with depression.

Conclusion. - The study identified specific work-related stressors in managers, 12% of whom developed a major depression.