​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​A sadness that doesn’t go away. Activities devoid of pleasure. Persisting fatigue even when you get sleep. 

Thoughts that things are hopeless or that you’re helpless to deal with life. Starting to slip up on your work or turn in projects late. There are a few of the symptoms residents have described to RWBC when they sought help for suspected depression. 

These residents were linked to confidential help and their depression improved. If you suspect you may have depression, you are not alone. Rates of depression are higher in medical students and residents than in the general population with upwards of 30% of residents reporting depression compared to 12-19% lifetime occurrence for the general population. Occurrence of depression among residents in Marshfield appears to match that noted in other residency programs. A 2008 survey of our residents (N=52), using the Beck Depression Inventory, found that 26% scored in the moderately depressed range and 3% in the severely depressed range (M. Gaulke, July 2008 personal communication).

Depression is important to address

Depression can interfere in your life in many ways, affecting your relationships with loved ones, impairing your training, impacting your manner with patients and misleading you into doubting your abilities and choice to be a physician. Left untreated, depression is more likely to recur, more likely to disrupt your career, more likely to affect how you counsel your patients on their own mood concerns and may lead to thoughts of suicide. AMA, ACGME, Marshfield Clinic and Marshfield Medical Center recognize that physicians are human and do experience depression. These organizations recognize depression as a treatable medical condition, not a sign of weakness or grounds for removal from residency. RWBC was created in part to encourage and facilitate residents to obtain consultation early with their concerns for depression. Please contact us for a confidential consultation on your concerns.

Depression self-tests

Below is a link to a self-test for depressive symptoms. This is meant to help you learn the manifestations of depression. This is not for diagnostic purposes. Please do not use this tool to treat yourself. Remember, self or peer prescribing is expressly prohibited and may lead to termination from training as well as legal repercussions. Please come talk with RWBC, a friend, your mentor or others and get help, don’t treat yourself. 

• ​Goldberg Depression Questionnaire, a Screening Test for Depression​ (Take the test)
  

​Ways to address depression. Here are some basic guidelines:​

• Learn about depression. Check reputable links for information such as the National Institute for Mental Health.
  
• Talk with trusted people about your concerns. Family, friends, your mentor, program director, RWBC or ERC. No matter who you contact, just do it, don’t keep it secret.
  
• Have a primary care physician with whom you can share your concerns. This person will be an invaluable resource for you as you deal with your depression.
  
• Engage in self-care activities. Rest, exercise, get good nutrition, moderate caffeine and limited alcohol use. Check some of the suggestions found under Burnout on the RWBC website for additional suggestions.
  
• Seek consultation and treatment.
• Use Web-based resources​ to build resilience

Depression is effectively treated and does not need to interfere in your life and your success in residency. Please talk with us or someone about your concerns.​​

Suicide