Behind the Mask: Risk Profiles of Depression and Anxiety in Anesthesiology Residents

Anesthesiology residents play a crucial role in healthcare, yet the demanding nature of their residency-long hours, high stress, and challenging work conditions-often leads to mental health issues like depression and anxiety. Despite the importance of resident well-being, mental health problems among anesthesiology residents in Mexico remain underexplored. The main objective of this study was to characterize potential profiles linked to anxiety, depression, and their comorbidity among anesthesiology residents, drawing on demographic and residency-related variables.

A cross-sectional study was conducted with 1208 anesthesiology residents who completed an online survey between October 2019 and April 2021. The survey collected demographic data, professional activities, adversities, and mental health, using the ICD-11 PHC screening test.

A total of 74.5% of residents suffered from no symptoms of depression or anxiety (C), 5.3% suffered from depression (D), 13.1% suffered from anxiety (A), and 7.1% suffered from both (AD). Sleep deprivation (average of 5.1 h per night) was common, with residents reporting more sleep disturbances and work-related distress, particularly those suffering from depression or comorbid depression and anxiety. Logistic regression showed that depression was associated with being single and sleeping fewer hours, while residents with anxiety or both conditions reported higher work-related distress and greater exposure to assaults.

This study emphasized the need for systemic changes aimed at a more supportive training environment, including interventions to protect residents' sleep, which will enhance well-being and provide mental health care to those who need it.