Suicide risk is significantly higher for female doctors compared with the general population, according to an analysis of evidence from 20 countries.
The researchers said that while suicide rates among doctors have declined over time, and risk varied across different countries and regions, the results highlighted a need for continued research and prevention efforts.
According to previous estimates, one doctor dies by suicide every day in the US, and about one every 10 days in the UK, but evidence on suicide rates for physicians is inconsistent across countries.
To address this, researchers led by the University of Vienna in Austria analyzed the results of observational studies published between 1960 and 2024 that compared suicides rates among doctors with the general population.
A total of 39 studies from 20 countries were included. The researchers found no overall increase in suicide risk for male doctors compared with the general population. For female doctors, however, suicide risk was significantly higher (76%) than the general population, the BMJ reported.
While there was no overall increase found among male physicians when compared with the general public, a separate analysis of the data revealed male doctors did have a higher risk of suicide compared with other professional groups with “similar socioeconomic status”.
Analysis of the 10 most recent studies compared with older studies showed a decline in suicide rates over time for both male and female doctors.
“Overall, this study highlights the ongoing need for suicide prevention measures among physicians,” the research team wrote in the BMJ.
“We found evidence for increased suicide rates in female physicians compared with the general population, and for male physicians compared with other professionals.
“The recent Covid-19 pandemic has put additional strain on the mental health of physicians, potentially exacerbating risk factors for suicide such as depression and substance use.”
In a linked editorial, experts from Doctors in Distress, a charity offering support to healthcare workers, wrote: “Persistently high rates of suicide among female doctors need particularly urgent attention from researchers, health leaders and policy makers, including studies to explore likely contributors such as discrimination and sexual harassment, to characterize those at highest risk and to develop and evaluate gender specific interventions to protect female doctors’ mental health.
“All doctors must have access to early intervention and confidential treatment services so that they do not suffer in silence.”
Katie Hardcastle, a senior research manager at Samaritans, said: “We’re concerned this new global evidence suggests an increased suicide risk in female doctors, as it builds on what we know from national data about risk among female health professionals, particularly nurses.
“It’s vital that all health workers who might be struggling are encouraged and supported to seek help when needed.”
In the UK, the NHS said staff wellbeing was a crucial part of its workforce plan.
A spokesperson added: “There is a range of mental health support available for staff, including access to 24/7 confidential support services, coaching and flexible working options, but we know there is much more to do to ensure everyone working in the NHS feels comfortable asking for help and receives the right support when they do.”
#James Donaldson notes: Welcome to the “next chapter” of my life… being a voice and an advocate for #mentalhealthawarenessandsuicideprevention, especially pertaining to our younger generation of students and student-athletes. Getting men to speak up and reach out for help and assistance is one of my passions. Us men need to not suffer in silence or drown our sorrows in alcohol, hang out at bars and strip joints, or get involved with drug use. Having gone through a recent bout of #depression and #suicidalthoughts myself, I realize now, that I can make a huge difference in the lives of so many by sharing my story, and by sharing various resources I come across as I work in this space.#http://bit.ly/JamesMentalHealthArticle Find out more about the work I do on my 501c3 non-profit foundation website www.yourgiftoflife.org Order your copy of James Donaldson’s latest book, #CelebratingYourGiftofLife: From The Verge of Suicide to a Life of Purpose and Joy
James Donaldson is a Washington State University graduate (’79). After an outstanding basketball career with WSU, he went on to play professional basketball in the NBA with the Seattle Supersonics, San Diego/L.A. Clippers, Dallas Mavericks, New York Knicks, and Utah Jazz. He also played for several teams in the European Leagues in Spain, Italy, and Greece, and he toured with The Harlem Globetrotters to wrap up his career. James was an NBA All-Star in 1988 while playing center for the Dallas Mavericks. In 2006, James was inducted into the Pac-10 Sports Hall of Fame and also the Washington State University Athletic Hall of Fame. In 2010, James was elected as a board member for the NBA Retired Players Association.
James frequently conducts speaking engagements (motivational, inspirational, educational) for organizations, schools, and youth groups.
In 2010, James was the recipient of the NBA Legends of Basketball ABC Award, awarded for outstanding contributions in Athletics–Business–Community.
He believes in being a role model for success and professionalism to the scores of young people to whom he devotes so much of his time. He currently serves on several boards and committees and is a member of many organizations.
James believes in developing relationships that create a “Win-Win” environment for everyone involved, and in being the best he can be!
For more information about James Donaldson or to request he speak at your event, contact him at:
James Donaldson is the author of “Standing Above The Crowd” and “Celebrating Your Gift of Life” and founder of the Your Gift of Life Foundation which focuses on mental health awareness and suicide prevention, especially pertaining to our school aged children and men.
If you’re interested in having James come and speak to your group of young adults, business entrepreneurs, aspiring political and community leaders, and athletic teams, please contact him at jamesd@yourgiftoflife.org and or leave a personal message for him at 1-800-745-3161. Keep up with him and read about how he is reaching out and making a difference in the lives of so many around the world at www.yourgiftoflife.org
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