Uso de psicofármacos entre profissionais médicos: uma revisão integrativa

Abstract

The mental health of medical professionals has been widely discussed in light of the increasing incidence of psychological disorders associated with work overload, institutional pressure, and constant exposure to human suffering. This study aimed to analyze, through an integrative literature review, the patterns of psychotropic drug use among physicians, identifying prevalence, associated factors, and clinical and ethical implications. The search was conducted in the SciELO, LILACS, PubMed/MEDLINE, and Periódico CAPES databases, covering articles published between 2014 and 2024. Ten studies were included, encompassing various national contexts and methodological approaches. The results revealed a high prevalence of antidepressant, anxiolytic, and hypnotic use, with self-prescription and self-medication emerging as common practices, especially among senior physicians or those under occupational stress. The COVID-19 pandemic was identified as a significant aggravating factor. It is concluded that the medicalization of psychological distress among physicians is a multifactorial phenomenon that requires institutional policies for support, prevention, and structured care. Reducing stigma and strengthening emotional support systems are essential strategies to promote mental health and ensure safety in medical practice.