Prevalence and Predictors of Depression Among Medical Residents in Western Saudi Arabia

There is evidence of a higher depression rate among resident physicians compared to the general population. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of depression and assess its severity and predictors among physician residents in Jeddah, Western Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional survey was conducted using the self-administered Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). This study included 149 medical residents. More than half (53%) were female and 43% were married. A diagnosis of depression (mild to severe) was identified in 75.8% of the participants (mild in 35.6%, moderate in 34.2%, and severe depression in 6.0%). Residents in surgery and emergency programs were at an increased risk for moderate-to-severe depression (OR 2.60, 95% CI 1.13, 5.98; OR 4.90, 95% CI 1.08, 22.20; respectively). Mental health programs for resident physicians would facilitate the early detection of depression and mental disorders. However, adequate mentoring, managing workloads, and social off-duty activities are always vital.