Medical Education Bulletin

Medical Education Bulletin

Enhancing Mental Health in Obstetrics and Gynecology Residents: Impact of Workload, Burnout, Job Satisfaction, and Quality of Life

Document Type : Letter to the Editor

Author
Resident of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
10.22034/meb.2025.538366.1120
Abstract
Dear Editor-in-chief,
       The residency period in Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB/GYN) is an exceptionally demanding stage of medical training that profoundly affects residents' mental health and job satisfaction. This is largely due to heavy clinical workloads, complex patient care responsibilities, and significant emotional stress. Recent studies report burnout rates exceeding 64%, anxiety affecting around 71%, and depression over 57% among OB/GYN residents. Minority populations, such as Black residents, show even higher incidences of depression and suicidal ideation, emphasizing the critical need for culturally sensitive and targeted mental health interventions.
Quality of life among OB/GYN residents is closely linked to their mental health and levels of job satisfaction. Supportive work environments characterized by effective mentorship, fair and equitable shift scheduling, and ready access to psychological resources significantly enhance well-being. Additionally, structured educational programs that combine clinical practice with theoretical training contribute to improved knowledge, greater professional development, and reduced psychological strain. Addressing these challenges through systematic improvements in workload distribution, organizational support, and comprehensive mental health promotion is essential. Such strategies will not only foster residents’ well-being and job satisfaction but also elevate the overall quality of medical education and patient care in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
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