What is it Currently Like Being a Trainee Psychiatrist in Australia?

Abstract

Objective: To ascertain the views of Australian trainee psychiatrists about their training, levels of stress and work satisfaction. Methods: A survey was constructed by the authors and mailed in December 2002 to all trainees of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists residing in Australia. Results: A total of 317 out of 666 trainees (48%) returned completed questionnaires. The findings were consistent across Australia with few State or Territory differences. The most common reasons for choosing a career in psychiatry were an interest in psychological issues and the promise of intellectual stimulation. The majority of respondents regarded favourably the quality of training in their training programme, clinical placements and supervision. Although approximately three-quarters (73%) were satisfied with their clinical work, a similar proportion (72%) considered their work in the previous 12 months to have been stressful. Formal complaints, threats of legal action, verbal or physical abuse, and the suicide of patients under their care were not uncommonly reported by trainees. Conclusions: Changing mental health services, a revised training programme and the perennial demands of acquiring knowledge and skills in one's chosen specialty pose challenges for psychiatry trainees. Although the majority of trainees seem satisfied with their work and training, addressing their concerns and adverse experiences is essential for the training climate to be optimal and the psychiatry workforce to be content and productive. Particular issues (e.g. the growing proportion of women entering the profession, the ageing trainee workforce) warrant careful attention by those responsible for training and workforce planning.