Fatores de risco e prevenção do suicídio entre estudantes de medicina: uma revisão de literatura

Abstract

The medical education process imposes an intense workload and complex content, challenging students to maintain a balance between physical and mental health. Disorders such as anxiety, depression, and burnout are common, contributing to a higher prevalence of suicide among physicians and medical students. Suicide risk factors often arise during the student period, making it essential to identify them to create effective preventive strategies. The objective of this study is to evaluate psychosocial and academic factors that increase the risk of suicide among medical students. Cohort studies, systematic reviews, and clinical trials published in the last 10 years in the MedLine database were analyzed, using descriptors such as “risk factors,” “suicide prevention,” and “medical students.” After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, four studies were included in the analysis. The results indicate that medical students exhibit higher rates of suicidal thoughts and behaviors compared to the general population. Various variables, such as living conditions and family support, influence these factors. Students with less family support tend to have a greater propensity for suicidal behaviors, compounded by long study hours, high levels of stress, and poor sleep quality. Anxiety and depression, prevalent in this group, are critical risk factors. It is concluded that it is essential to identify signs of anxiety and depression early among students and openly address these issues in the academic environment to prevent tragic outcomes.