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Acknowledging the risk of suicidal ideation, depression, and anxiety in PAs
Noël E Smith1, Talia Sierra, Heidi Brown
1Noël E. Smith is senior director of PA and industry research and analysis at the American Academy of Physician Associates in Alexandria, Va. Talia Sierra is an associate professor in the PA program at Idaho State University in Caldwell, Idaho. Heidi Brown practices in psychiatry in Oregon, Idaho, and Utah, and is an affiliate faculty member in the PA program at Idaho State University. The authors have disclosed no potential conflicts of interest, financial or otherwise.
Abstract:
The prevalence of suicidal ideation is unknown and limited information exists about depression and anxiety among physician associates/assistants (PAs). We set out to understand the degree of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation in PAs and PA students. In total, 728 PAs and 322 PA students took an online survey. Risk of depression and anxiety were present at higher levels in PA students compared with employed PAs. PA students indicated higher levels of suicidal ideation compared with clinically active PAs. One-third of those with suicidal ideation did not reveal it to anyone; among those who did, 16.2% feared the results of disclosure. This study establishes that PAs and PA students are at risk for suicidal ideation and often bypass help. The COVID-19 pandemic may have led to elevated rates of emotional distress, and longitudinal studies are needed to understand the basis for such ideation and if it is transitory.
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