Career satisfaction and work stressors in psychiatrists and psychiatry trainees in Australia and New Zealand

Abstract

Objective: To assess the level of career satisfaction and factors associated with work stress in members of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP). Methods: In 2014 an online survey was distributed to members of the RANZCP (including psychiatrists and psychiatry trainees). Results: A total of 1051 members responded to the survey. Almost 85% of respondents indicated that they were satisfied with the work they were doing at the current stage of their career. ‘Too much work to do in too little time’ emerged as a key stressor and was ranked as the number one stressor in last 12 months by over one third of respondents. Where applicable, examinations, prospect of revalidation and training hurdles were all noted to be moderately/extremely stressful by over 50% of respondents. Conclusions: The majority of psychiatrists and trainees appear to be satisfied with their current work. However, there are many factors creating increased work stress and affecting welfare. The role of the college in protecting the welfare of its members should be further considered.