Suicide among medical doctors: Psychological autopsy data on seven cases

Author(s): Heinanen, H., Vaisanen, E., Lonnqvist, J.

Journal/Book: Arch Suicide Res. 1998; 4: Spuiboulevard 50, PO Box 17, 3300 AA Dordrecht, Netherlands. Kluwer Academic Publ. 135-141.

Abstract: Suicide mortality among medical doctors is significantly higher compared with other professionals and the general population in Finland as well as in many other industrialized countries, concerning especially female doctors. The National Suicide Prevention Project in Finland covered all suicides that happened during one year (1.4.1987-31.3.1988). The data were collected and analysed by the psychological autopsy method. It is possible that the physicians who committed suicide tended to have an emphasized reliance on professional identity, in which case a crucial internal resource would have been a sense of autonomy. A variety of problems (physical or mental illness, professional setbacks) could then be perceived as threats to the doctor identity and a sense of autonomy. Moreover, doctors often preferred to medicate themselves instead of seeking outside medical help. It is possible that medical professionals easily resort to chemical forms of coping, which increase the risk of suicide.

Note: Article Lindeman S, Kaitovayla 27 C 15, Oulu 90570, FINLAND

Keyword(s): medical doctors; psychological autopsy; suicide; MENTAL-DISORDERS

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