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Depression in Physicians

& Medical Students

Dr. Leslie Flynn

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Depression

Common

17% of general population

risk for physicians

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Did you know?

1997 study of 454 MDs

40% clinically depressed

25-40% medical students &

residents will experience a

depression

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Did you know?

2 periods that place you at

high risk

end of 2nd year of medical

school

first year of residency

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What is Depression?

an illness

mood disturbance

depressed mood, sadness, low

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Associated Symptoms

Loss of interests & loss of

pleasure

Inability to concentrate

Sleep disturbance

Appetite disturbance

Decreased energy

Guilt

Worthlessness

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S uici de Males: 1.5 x rate

Females: 3 x rate

estimated # equivalent to an

average-sized medical school

class

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Why are we at Risk?

Personality Characteristics

Occupational Risks

Social Risk Factors

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Personality Characteristics

I am excessively

perfectionistic.

I strive for control.

I am dedicated and committed.

I have self-doubt.

I am competitive.

I do not display anger.

I am a perennial caretaker.

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Occupational Risks

Workload

Lack of Sleep

Poor Eating Habits

Poor Level of Fitness

Exposure to Illness, Tragedy &

Death

Patients: demanding,

dissatisfied, unappreciative

Scrutin

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Social Risk Factors

Strained relationships

Financial worries

Too little time for personal

activities

Social pressures

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Risks for Medical Students

New School

New City

Work Overload

Expectations

Inadequate Study Skills

Fear of Academic Failure

Loneliness

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Treatment Options

Medication

Psychotherapy

60-70% response to initial

treatment

Of remaining 30%, 90% respond

to alternative thera

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Despite the incidence, the

morbidity & mortality, andthe availability of effective

treatments, depression in

physicians often goesuntreated.

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Barriers to Treatment

Intellectual Defenses: Denial,

Minimization,Rationalization,

Reaction Formation,Displacement

Lack of time

Fear of psychiatrists

Cynicism about psychiatry

Fear of being a patient

Stigma

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Prevention

Self Awareness

Self Care

Adequate Sleep

Healthy Eating

Exercise

Social Activities

Avoid caffeine, nicotine,

alcohol, marijuana

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Warning Signs!

energy

in physical problems

in negative thoughts & feelings

problems with relationships

interaction with others

cognitive ability

exercise

alcohol

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Depression is a treatable

illness.

Physicians do well when

treated.

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Who to Cal l? Dr. Leslie Flynn

Dr. John Smythe

Dr. David Holland

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Who to Cal l? Your family doctor

Student Health Services: Dr.

Steve McNevin, Dr. Heather

Pearson, Dr. Mike Condra

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Who to Cal l? Physician Health Program

OMA

Dr. Michael Kaufmann

1-800-851-6606

1-416-340-2972

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We are a community

Since colleagues are reluctant

to seek help, it is crucial to

watch out for each other Recognize signs & sx of

depression

Offer help without judgement

Call us!