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Women’s suicide risk increases by 76% if they work as doctors, study says
The suicide risk has increased by 76% in female doctors, as a shocking study compares the rates with the general population.
People working in the medical and health world undertake stressful jobs, and while suicide rates among doctors have reportedly declined over time, recent research shows that the risk is higher for female doctors. The findings highlight a need for continued research and suicide prevention efforts.
Research into suicide rates among physicians
Research published�in the BMJ journal studied suicide rates among physicians compared with the general population, showing risk is significantly higher for female doctors.
Physicians describe people qualified to practice medicine. Throughout time and across the world, doctors have always had higher rates of suicide compared with the general population and other professional groups, but evidence on suicide rates for physicians is inconsistent across countries.
Researchers led by the University of Vienna in Austria addressed this problem and analyzed the results of observational studies published between 1960 and 2024 that compared suicide rates among doctors with the general population.
According to an analysis of evidence from 20 countries, the research shows that while suicide rates among doctors have declined over time, and risk varied across different countries and regions, there is still a need for further research and prevention efforts.
Suicide risk increases by 76% in female doctors
The researchers found no overall increase in suicide risk for male doctors compared with the general population. However, the BMJ reported for female doctors, it was 76% higher.
Evidence revealed increased suicide rates in both female and male physicians compared with other professions.
The research team explained the Covid-19 pandemic put additional strain on the mental health of physicians, “potentially exacerbating risk factors for suicide such as depression and substance use.
If you are affected by any issues raised in the article or would like someone to speak to, please call the Samaritans for free on 116 123. You can also email them at�[email protected]�or visit�samaritans.org�to find your nearest branch in the UK. In the US, please visit Samaritans USA for more information.
You can also contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255) or text 741741 to get in touch with the Crisis Text Line. Americans can now call or text 988 to reach out and speak to a counselor.
