A recent survey by the World Health Organization (WHO) has shed light on the worrying situation faced by health professionals in Europe, revealing that a third of them suffer from depression and anxiety. This research, the most extensive conducted to date, includes data from 27 European Union countries, as well as from Iceland and Norway.
Coinciding with World Mental Health Day, the study titled "Mental Health of Nurses and Doctors" analyzed more than 90,000 responses, highlighting the detrimental effects of chronic underfunding on European health systems. According to the findings, one in three health workers has been a victim of harassment or violent threats, and 10% have suffered physical violence or sexual harassment in their work.
Another alarming aspect is that one in four doctors works more than 50 hours per week, and around 32% of doctors and 25% of nurses have temporary contracts. This job insecurity has increased anxiety about job security. The survey also reveals that one in ten professionals has had thoughts of "being better off dead" in the previous two weeks, which increases the risk of suicidal behaviors.
The WHO emphasizes that 33% of professionals report mental health problems such as depression or anxiety, linked to unsafe working conditions. The prevalence of suicidal thoughts is twice that of the general population.
However, despite the challenges, many doctors and nurses maintain a strong sense of purpose in their work. Three out of four doctors and two out of three nurses find meaning in their work. Mélanie Debarreix, a radiology resident in France, highlighted the urgency of enforcing laws on working hours and securing resources to protect the mental health of the staff.
The report also warns that between 11% and 34% of healthcare workers are considering leaving their jobs, which could severely affect patient care with longer wait times and a lower quality service. The WHO had already warned about a possible shortage of nearly 940,000 workers by 2030 in Europe.
To confront this crisis, the report suggests seven urgent policy actions, including the implementation of a zero-tolerance policy toward violence, the improvement of shift flexibility, and proper management of overtime. The WHO stresses that improving working conditions is crucial for attracting and retaining talent, thereby ensuring quality and accessible care in the future.
