Moral Harassment and Mental Health in Medical Residents: A Longitudinal Study.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: This study investigates if moral harassment contributes to anxiety, depression and burnout among medical residents. METHODS: This three-stage longitudinal study involves 218 first-year residents, with 76 (34.9%) participating throughout all stages. The questionnaire covered demographics, mental health (using Patient Health Questionnaire - 4 - PHQ-4), burnout (using Maslach Burnout Inventory Human Services Survey - MBI-HSS), and harassment experiences. Logistic regression analyzed mental health outcomes and harassment. RESULTS: The study found significant variations in anxiety and depression scores, along with a notable decrease in the personal accomplishment dimension of burnout. Harassment prevalence was above 90%, and most victims were disturbed by harassment suffered. While a direct correlation between harassment victimization and decreased mental health was not found, seeking help exacerbated suffering, and surgical program residents had a smaller increase in depression and emotional exhaustion. CONCLUSIONS: To the extent of our knowledge, this is the first longitudinal study on mental health and harassment among medical residents. Mental suffering after taking action against harassment suggests that safe environments for addressing these issues are lacking in residency. Further studies concerning surgical residents could shed light on their lower levels of suffering. Institutional changes are necessary to embrace victims and create a healthy environment.