Suicide and the Stress of Residency Training: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Suicide rates among physicians have been reported to be twice that of the general adult population. Few data are available, however, regarding suicide among resident physicians. A case study of the suicide of a male intern is discussed. The literature is reviewed to elucidate potential contributory factors including reported causes and manifestations of stress among resident physicians, suicide rates among physicians including house staff with considerations of sex, and common personality characteristics of physicians and medical students. Recommendations are extended which may assist in early recognition and treatment of individuals at risk of impairment and suicide.