Stress Among Surgeons: Sources and Determinants

Abstract

A career in surgery brings significant challenges that can lead to substantial personal distress. To document the prevalence and sources of stress among surgeons working in Saudi Arabia. The survey was conducted between February and June 2019. All participants were surveyed using a self-administered questionnaire interview; it included socio-economic data, data related to work, and an International Stress Management Association stress questionnaire. A total of 357 surgeons were surveyed. Their ages ranged from 21 to 66 years old. Respondents, who expressed themselves as more likely to experience stress and more prone to stress and stress-related illness, were 156 (43.7%) and 150 (42%), respectively. The surgeons, who expressed the most stress, were neurosurgeons (73.1%), followed by urology surgeons (66.7%). Ophthalmologists experienced the least stress at 18.1% while ENT surgeons experienced the second-lowest amount of stress at 25.6%. Age, years of experience, and number of calls per month were identified as significant predictors of stress among surgeons. This study highlights high levels of occupational stress among surgeons. Self-awareness among physicians can enhance the ability to recognize their vulnerability to stress. The results of the study support the potential of mindfulness training to promote resilience during residency.