A deeper understanding of depression and suicidality among medical students

Abstract

Prevalence rates for depression among medical students are three times higher than the prevalence rates of depression in the general population. In order to understand these high prevalence rates, the authors discuss the underlying psychodynamics of a subset of medical students who seek therapy for depression and suicidality during their medical school years. Does medical school screen for people who are more prone to depression or does medical school cause high depression rates? The authors describe students with the combination of harsh/critical aspects from their early family life coupled with emotional misattunement of caregivers. The authors then discuss how the medical school environment may lead to reeexperiencing of these dynamics, triggering depression and suicidal ideation. The article provides recommendations for identifying these students and referring them to mental health services.

Disclosure statement

The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of this article.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Noa Heiman

Noa Heiman, PhD, is an Assistant Professor at the University of Colorado Department of Psychiatry and Co-Director of the Psychotherapy Scholar Track offered to residents. Dr. Heiman is also a practicing psychologist at Student Mental Health on the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus.

Rachel Davis

Rachel Davis, MD, is an Assistant Professor at the University of Colorado Department of Psychiatry and Medical Director of Student Mental Health on the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus.

Brian Rothberg

Brian Rothberg, MD, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Colorado, Co-Director of the Psychotherapy Scholar Track offered to residents, and Interim Medical Director of UCH Psychiatric Outpatient Services.