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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!