National Physician Suicide Prevention Day Brings Awareness to Mental Health
Today is National Physician Suicide Awareness Day (#NPSADay)! #NPSADay is a reminder and call to action to help everyone prevent physician suicide, including health organizations, health systems, hospitals, medical societies and practices. It’s a time to talk — and to act — so physicians’ struggles don’t become mental health emergencies.
Physicians have one of the highest suicide rates of any profession. More than half of physicians know a physician who has either considered, attempted or died by suicide in their career. It’s estimated that one million Americans lose their physician to suicide each year. It is vital that we make a conscious and forward effort to break down stigma and encourage physicians to talk about their mental health and seek support when they need it, especially in the wake of the most significant health event in recent history.
The Santa Clara County Medical Association is committed to raising awareness of the physician suicide epidemic and galvanizing physicians, their colleagues and their loved ones to create a culture of wellbeing that prioritizes reducing burnout, safeguarding job satisfaction and viewing seeking mental health services as a sign of strength. We want you to join us!
Visit NPSAday.org to learn more about ways to take action on #NPSADay, and use #NPSADay to spread the word today.