National Physician Suicide Awareness Day (NPSA Day), observed annually on September 17, provides the opportunity to bring awareness to the physician suicide epidemic and the resources available so physician’s struggles don’t become mental health emergencies. We all have a role in breaking the culture of silence, encouraging open dialogue, and removing the stigma surrounding mental health and seeking mental health care among current and future physicians.
Physicians have one of the highest suicide rates of any profession. More than half of physicians and medical students, and nearly half of residents, know of a physician, colleague, or peer, respectively, who has considered, attempted, or died by suicide. It’s estimated that one million Americans lose their physician to suicide each year.
On NPSA Day, we are committed to fostering a culture of wellbeing that prioritizes prevention, compassionate and safe conversations, job satisfaction, removing stigma, and sharing resources that can help those in distress. Together, we can shift the paradigm from a system where physicians think that burnout, depression or suicidal thoughts are something they can, or must, overcome by themselves, to one where we view seeking mental health services as a sign of strength, not weakness.
Addressing physician suicide requires a comprehensive approach that includes both organizational reform and individual support. However, there are seven actions you can take to begin the change:
- Learn the vital signs
- Encourage mental health reflection
- Share suicide prevention resources
- Prepare before a moment of crisis
- Check in with a colleague
- Remove intrusive mental health questions
- Create a culture of wellbeing
A number of resources, including those listed below, are available to raise awareness and extend help and guidance. Finally, if you or someone you know is struggling or may be considering suicide, call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org for free 24/7 support.
Resources:
All In: Wellbeing First for Healthcare
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
AMA STEPS Forward: Burnout and Well-Being
AMA STEPS Forward: Physician Burnout
AMA Physician Well-Being Program
AMA Preventing Physician Suicide
Council of Residency Directors in Emergency Medicine – NPSA Day
NIH My Mental Health: Do I Need Help?
NIH Your Healthiest Self: Wellness Toolkits
SAMHSA Creating A Healthier Life, A Step-By-Step Guide to Wellness
