RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Self-Perceived Mental Health and Perceived Discrimination in Family Physicians and Residents: A Comparative Study Between Men and Women
JF The Journal of the American Board of Family
                Medicine
JO J Am Board Fam Med
FD American Board of Family Medicine
SP 912
OP 920
DO 10.3122/jabfm.2022.05.220091
VO 35
IS 5
A1 Guízar-Sánchez, Diana
A1 Yoldi-Negrete, María
A1 Robles-García, Rebeca
A1 López-Ortiz, Geovani
A1 Rivero-López, Carlos
A1 Castro-Valdes, Isis
A1 Tovilla-Zárate, Carlos Alfonso
A1 Fresán Orellana, Ana
YR 2022
UL http://www.jabfm.org/content/35/5/912.abstract
AB Introduction: The present study aims to examine sex differences in demographic variables, professional activities and adversities, self-reported mental health problems, and perceived discrimination in a sample of family doctors and family medicine residents in Mexico.Methods: From a larger sample of medical specialists, an analytic, cross-sectional study was conducted with 566 participants, including 317 (56%) family medicine residents and 249 (44%) family doctors in Mexico through an online survey. Demographic features, professional activities and adversities, mental health, and perceived discrimination were examined. Descriptive and comparative analyses were performed. Cramer’s V for chi-square tests and Hedge’s g for t test were conducted to determine effect sizes.Results: Both sexes displayed similar percentages of professional adversities (such as attending patients with suicidal behavior or who died not by suicide under their care), and a higher number of women reported seeking specialized support to cope with these deaths (Fisher = 0.04). Men perceived greater discrimination (P = .01), worked more hours per day (P < .001) and were more verbally assaulted (P = .04), whereas women reported mental health problems more frequently (P < .001) particularly depression, anxiety, burnout and sleeping problems. Women also reported worse health status (P < .001) when compared with men.Conclusion: Family medicine specialists constitute a vulnerable group for mental health problems and perceived discrimination. Particular attention should be paid to how men and women cope with professional adversities to determine whether additional support is required. Interventions should encourage self-care and promote the well-being of health personnel.