According to a new study, the risk of depression rises in direct proportion to the number of hours worked in a week by doctors in training. The study, which will be published in the May issue of the American Journal of Psychiatry, followed over 1,000 first-year residents (doctors in training) for four years.
The findings show that the risk of depression increased by 30% for each additional hour worked above 40 hours per week. When residents worked more than 80 hours per week, the likelihood of depression was nearly three times that of residents working a 40-hour week.
This is the first long-term study to examine the relationship between hours worked and depression in doctors in training. The findings suggest that the current level of 80-hour work weeks for residents may be putting them at risk for depression.
The study highlights the need for better working conditions for residents, who are often overworked and underpaid. It is hoped that this study will lead to changes in the way residency programs are run, to help protect the mental health of future doctors.
The prevalence of depression is on the rise globally, and new research sheds light on one possible reason why: working long hours in a high-stress job.
The study, published in the journal BMC Psychiatry, followed more than 3,400 first-year medical residents in the United States for six years. The participants were surveyed at the beginning of the study and then again at the end, and they were asked about their work schedules, job satisfaction, and symptoms of depression.
The researchers found that those who worked more than 40 hours per week were more likely to develop symptoms of depression than those who worked fewer hours. And, the risk of depression increased even further for those who reported high levels of job stress.
These findings suggest that, for many people, working long hours in a high-stress job can take a toll on mental health. If you’re struggling to cope with the demands of your job, it’s important to reach out for help. Talk to your employer about your workload, and seek professional help if you’re feeling overwhelmed or depressed.
