According to new findings, doctors in America have the highest suicide rate of any profession, with roughly one completed suicide every day. Moreover, the number of physician suicides are more than twice that of the general public.
The findings come on the heels of a systematic review of suicide rates in America. According to the data, the suicide rate among physicians is 28 to 40 per 100,000, while for the general public, it’s 12.3 per 100,000. That rate is higher than suicides among current and former military members, which some argue is the most stressful occupation in America. Some of the main conditions that these physicians experience are untreated depression and mental illness.
Physician Suicide Rates
Other findings from the national review include:
- Although female physicians attempt suicide far less often than women in the general population, the completion rate for female physicians is more than 2.5-4 times higher than the general population, and is equal to the completion rate of male physicians.
- One study found that depression affects roughly 12 percent of male physicians and up to 19.5 percent of female physicians.
- Between 15 and 30 percent of medical students express depressive symptoms on screening tests.
- The biggest issue may be the obstacle of seeking treatment. 50 percent of female physician respondents met a criteria for a mental disorder, but were reluctant to seek professional help because of fear of stigma.
- Poisoning and hanging are the two most common means of physician suicide in America.
- Psychiatrists had the highest rate of suicides among specialties.
The healthcare industry is very demanding, and it doesn’t help that the majority of doctors are overburdened. Bureaucratic red tape makes it harder to see patients can get them the help they need in a timely manner, which stresses both the patient and provider. We are so focused on helping fix everyone else and making them healthy that it’s easy to overlook our mental and physical health.
Working in healthcare is truly a rewarding experience, but it takes a heavy toll on healthcare workers. That’s why I always stress the importance of maintaining a healthy balance outside of work where the stresses of the day can be put on the back burner. Whether you find that stress relief in the form of exercise, playing in a band or going fishing, find something that you enjoy doing that takes you away from the stresses of work.
If you find yourself struggling with any aspect of this, or if life is becoming too stressful, please reach out for help.