FEMALE doctors are at a higher risk of suicide compared with the general population, a new study shows, with experts calling for better access to mental health support.

While the risk of suicide among doctors has decreased over time, academics have sounded the alarm over persistently high rates of suicide among female medics.

Some estimates suggest that the equivalent of one doctor dies by suicide every 10 days in Britain, experts from Doctors in Distress reveal today.

The study, published in the British Medical Journal, found that, among female doctors across 20 countries, there was a 76 per cent increased risk of suicide compared with the general population since 1960.

No overall increase was found among male physicians compared with the general public.

A separate analysis of the data revealed male doctors did have a higher risk of suicide compared with “other professional groups with similar socio-economic status.”

Suicides among female physicians in the 10 most recent studies remained significantly higher than rates in the general population — female doctors carried a 24 per cent increased risk in the most recent studies.

“Overall, this study highlights the ongoing need for suicide prevention measures among physicians,” the research team wrote.

“The recent Covid-19 pandemic has put additional strain on the mental health of physicians, potentially exacerbating risk factors for suicide such as depression and substance use.”

Samaritans senior research manager Katie Hardcastle called the findings concerning, adding: “It’s vital that all health workers who might be struggling are encouraged and supported to seek help when needed.”

NHS England said that staff wellbeing is a “crucial part of the NHS Long Term Workforce Plan” and that while a range of support services are available, the NHS is strengthening occupational health and reviewing mental health services.