Examination of suicidal thoughts in healthcare workers: Sample of a research and practice hospital

Abstract

Working in a hospital is a very stressful and sometimes risky process for all healthcare professionals who have experienced this difficult process for years. This situation may increase the suicidal tendency of healthcare workers as a result of not only physical but also psychological exhaustion. The purpose of this study was to determine the examination of suicidal ideation and related factors among healthcare professionals working in a research and practice hospital. The data of this descriptive and cross-sectional study were collected prospectively by clinicians in a research and practice hospital. The sample of the research consisted of n=600 healthcare workers. The average age of healthcare workers was 32.46±7.79 years; 48% were women and 47.7% were married. 4% of healthcare workers had a past suicide attempt, and 18% had various levels of suicidal ideation. Women were more likely to attempt suicide. There was a positive, strong, and statistically significant correlation between depression, anxiety severity and suicidal ideation. Suicidal thoughts of healthcare professionals are affected by gender, depression and anxiety. The mental health of healthcare professionals should be evaluated periodically, and psychological support should be provided to healthcare professionals at risk of suicide.