What is the Suicide rate among psychotherapists?

Psychotherapists are at an elevated risk of suicide compared to the general population, they are more than 2.5x likely to attempt suicide

In the United States, the suicide rate among psychotherapists is reported to be around 19 per 100,000 people, compared to 13 per 100,000 in the general population.

This increased risk may be due to several factors, including the high level of stress associated with the job, exposure to traumatic material, and the impact of working with clients who are struggling with mental illness. Additionally, psychotherapists may be less likely to seek help for their own mental health issues due to the stigma associated with mental illness in the field.

It is important for psychotherapists to be aware of the risks of suicide and to take steps to protect their mental health. This can include seeking regular supervision and support from colleagues, engaging in self-care practices, and seeking professional help if needed. Additionally, it is important for psychotherapists to be open about their own mental health struggles in order to reduce the stigma associated with mental illness in the field and encourage others to seek help.