# Factors associated with suicidal ideation in healthcare personnel: a systematic review

## TL;DR

This paper reviews factors linked to suicidal thoughts in healthcare workers, highlighting stress, exposure to death, and lack of support, while suggesting ways to reduce these risks.

## Contribution

The study systematically identifies pandemic-related and work-related risk and protective factors for suicidal ideation among healthcare professionals.

## Key findings

- The COVID-19 pandemic increased suicidal ideation prevalence among healthcare professionals.
- High occupational stress, exposure to death, and insufficient institutional support are key risk factors.
- Resilience, social support, and institutional resources act as protective factors against suicidal ideation.

## Abstract

This paper investigates suicidal ideation among healthcare professionals, a growing concern that affects their mental well-being and the quality of healthcare delivery. The study aims to identify key risk factors, such as work-related stress, exposure to death, and lack of institutional support, that contribute to suicidal ideation in this population. It also explores protective factors, including resilience, social support, and institutional resources, that may mitigate these risks.

A systematic review was conducted on studies published between 2020 and 2024. The literature search spanned databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, PsycINFO, Dialnet, and Scielo. The review followed the PRISMA guidelines to ensure thoroughness and transparency in study selection. To assess the quality of the included studies, standardized tools like the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale were applied.

The review identified that the COVID-19 pandemic has intensified factors leading to suicidal ideation among healthcare professionals, with a notable increase in prevalence during this period. Identified risk factors included high levels of occupational stress, frequent exposure to death and suffering, and insufficient institutional support. Conversely, protective factors like resilience, social support, and access to institutional resources were found to reduce susceptibility to suicidal ideation.

The findings highlight an urgent need for comprehensive prevention strategies and support programs targeting healthcare personnel. Recommendations for interventions span individual, organizational, and public policy levels. Enhancing resilience and providing institutional support could be crucial steps in reducing the incidence of suicidal ideation in this vulnerable group, ultimately improving both their mental health and the quality of healthcare services.