University of São Paulo's Medical Course Mobilizes after Suicide Attempts

04/12/2017 - 13h01

A series of suicide attempts among University of São Paulo's fourth-year medical students has mobilized students and teachers from one of the best colleges in the country.

At least six cases have been reported this year - three in recent weeks.

The tense atmosphere appears on students' Facebook pages - mentioning "suicide outbreaks" - and in teacher-to-student texts.

"We are very shocked by recent events involving the students' health. There is great apprehension and sadness in all of us," wrote the coordinator of the fourth year medical clinic course, Arnaldo Lichtenstein.

In another letter, a group from the psychotherapy service talks about the students' anguish.
"Exhaustion, anxiety, depression, psychiatric hospitalizations, suicide attempts, deaths. They sound like a cry for help."

Folha spoke to six students. They report that in the fourth year the student becomes more vulnerable because the pressures multiply.

"The graduation is near and the reality of the profession is killing illusions. There are childish disputes over marks."

Another student says that there is not enough time for activities outside the medical world.

According to Professor Francisco Lotufo Neto, representative of the faculty directory, the suicide attempts are related to several factors, such as entering a profession in contact with suffering, pressure for success and difficulty of the course.

There is a commission to accompany students with difficulties as well as a hotline for emergencies.

Translated by MARINA DELLA VALLE

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