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Suicidal behaviour and psychosocial problems in veterinary surgeons: a systematic review
Belinda Platt1, Keith Hawton, Sue Simkin
1Centre for Suicide Research, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7JX, UK. belinda.platt@wolfson.ox.ac.uk
Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology
|December 25, 2010
Summary
Veterinary surgeons face significant occupational stressors, including long hours and difficult client relations, contributing to elevated suicide rates. Young and female veterinarians appear to be at higher risk for mental health issues and job dissatisfaction.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Occupational Health
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Elevated suicide rates among veterinary surgeons are a growing concern globally.
- Limited understanding exists regarding the specific factors contributing to suicidal behavior in this profession.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review existing literature on suicidal behavior and psychosocial problems in veterinary surgeons.
- To identify occupational stressors and mental health challenges faced by veterinarians.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive systematic search of international research literature was conducted in May 2008.
- Data from 52 studies covering suicidal behavior, mental health, stress, burnout, and occupational difficulties were extracted and analyzed.
- Study quality was assessed, with higher quality studies given more weight in the analysis.
Main Results:
- Occupational stressors frequently reported include management issues, long working hours, heavy workloads, poor work-life balance, difficult client interactions, and performing euthanasia.
- Few studies directly investigated suicidal behavior or mental health conditions within the veterinary profession.
- Younger veterinarians and female veterinarians may be at increased risk for negative outcomes like suicidal thoughts, mental health difficulties, and job dissatisfaction.
Conclusions:
- The review underscores the significant occupational challenges impacting veterinary surgeons' mental well-being and contributing to suicidal behavior.
- Further research is recommended to explore the influence of euthanasia on attitudes toward suicide and the direct impact of occupational risk factors on suicidal behavior.
- Implications for suicide prevention strategies within the veterinary profession are discussed.
