One -third of doctors and nurses in Europe estimates that it is suffering from depression, according to a study publicized by the World Health Organization (WHO) branch today by the World Mental Health Day.

“A doctor or nurse in the three declares symptoms of depression or anxiety,” said Hans Claggue’s director for Europe, according to a statement. Percentage is five times larger What was measured between the European population, says the UN organization.

“More than one in 10 thought of putting an end to his life or self -injury – it is an unacceptable burden for those who care for us,” Clagge insisted.

Nurses and female doctors are more vulnerable to depression and anxiety, while male doctors tend to tend to develop alcohol dependence, clarified in the survey.

The most … unhappy

Health staff at Latvia and Poland It has the highest rates of depression, as almost half of those who responded there are on the limit of depressive disorder.

On the contrary, these rates are lower in Denmark and Iceland (about 15%).

The survey, based on 90,000 health professionals who gathered in the 27 European Union countries, Iceland and Norway, also reveals that a third of doctors and nurses suffered intimidation or threats of violence in his work. Acts of violence are more highlighted in Cyprus, Greece and Spain.

In addition, 10% of these professionals fell victim to physical violence and/or sexual harassment during the past year.

‘Health crisis’

In all countries, a doctor at four works over 50 hours a week.

32% of doctors and a quarter of nurses have temporary contracts, which increases their anxiety about their work safety.

For CLUGGE, “the mental health crisis in Health Personnel is a health safety crisis that threatens the integrity of our health systems.”

To put an end to this situation, he proposes many ways, especially zero tolerance for violence and harassment in a hospital environment, a reform of overtime appeal and guaranteed access to confidential mental health services.

These measures are even more necessary to the extent that Europe is facing a lack of personal care.

“With Europe tackling by 2030 a lack of almost a million health workers, we cannot allow them to lose them because of exhaustion, despair or violence,” Claug said.