To synthesize existing evidence on the association between burnout and suicidality in healthcare professionals and to identify vulnerable subgroups and intervention priorities.
Approach:
Systematic Review: Conducted in accordance with PRISMA 2020 guidelines, searching databases for studies published between January 2005 and December 2024, focusing on healthcare professionals and related high-stress occupational populations.
Key Findings:
A total of 29 studies met the inclusion criteria; 10 studies were included in the meta-analysis.
Strong associations were observed between burnout and suicidality, with emotional exhaustion and depersonalization identified as robust predictors.
Nurses and physicians were identified as particularly vulnerable, with higher effect sizes reported during the pandemic.
Overall methodological quality of the studies was moderate to high, with heterogeneity explained by profession, region, and burnout instrument.
Interpretation:
Burnout, particularly emotional exhaustion and depersonalization, is linked to increased suicidality among healthcare professionals, with evidence from related high-stress occupations.
Limitations:
Heterogeneity in studies regarding profession, region, and burnout assessment tools.
Potential biases in study designs and reporting.
Conclusion:
The findings indicate a need for systematic burnout surveillance and mental health support access for healthcare professionals.
