- 35%: increase in U.S. suicide rate from 1999 to 2018. (source)
- Relative risk of suicide for physicians vs. general population: female=2.27x; male=1.41x. (source)
- 50% of suicide decedents did not have a known mental health condition. (source)
- 30% of resident physicians experience depression or depressive symptoms. (source)
- Suicide the 2nd most common cause of death in residents. (source)
- 50% of U.K. physicians would not seek outpatient professional for mental illness. (source)
- 40.9% of U.S. adults report least one adverse mental/behavioral health condition related to COVID-19. (source)
- 21.7% of essential workers have seriously considered suicide in the past 30 days. (source)
Compiled by Daniel Lakoff, MD, MBA, MS, FACEP, clinical assistant professor of emergency medicine at Weill Cornell Medical College and associate director of emergency medicine at NYC H+H | Harlem Hospital in New York City.
3 Responses to “By the Numbers: Physician Suicide”
September 14, 2020
JTInterested in citing the statistic “50% of suicide decedents did not have a known mental health condition.”, but cannot find it in the source – I would be grateful if you could help me find it.
September 15, 2020
Curt Dill MDStaggering –
Call 1.800.273.8255
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 24/7
If you’re worried about someone
Remind them you are there, even if physically apart
Validate their experience (Listen more than you speak)
Supportive and encouraging comments creates space
It’s okay to ask directly if they are thinking about suicide.
Asking questions about thoughts of suicide does not increase a person’s suicide risk, and the answers can help you determine the next steps to take
Curt Dill MD
Chief Medical Officer
VA-New York/New Jersey Healthcare System
September 27, 2020
Dr. Tony CirilloSadly…the numbers we know of are the tip of the iceberg….
#endthestigma
Many resources to help….
ACEP Wellness & Assistance Program – 1-800-873-7138
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – 1-800-273-8255
Disaster Distress Helpline – 1-800-985-5990
National Helpline (SAMHSA) – 1-800-662-4357
Physician Support Line – 1-888-409-0141