Exploring the impact of work-related potential traumatic events among Dutch psychiatrists

ABSTRACT Psychiatrists are frequently exposed to work-related potential traumatic events (PTEs). A survey was sent to the members of the Dutch Society of Psychiatrists of which 250 questionnaires were eligible for analysis. At least one work-related PTE was reported by 196 (78.4%) of the respondents, of which 177 described the PTE. Witnessing or experiencing verbal aggression (29.2%), physical violence (29.2%) or completed suicide (26.8%) were the most common PTEs. This survey implies that psychiatrists frequently experience work-related PTEs, often with a significant emotional impact. The majority of respondents considered current support as insufficient.