Résumé
The prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is estimated to be 0.7% in the general population of France. Frequently associated with multiple comorbidities, it has a significant impact on quality of life. Residents are exposed to traumatogenic events. Several surveys reveal that the residency is a source of mental suffering (anxiety and depressive disorders, burnout, suicidal ideation). The aim of our study was to assess the prevalence of PTSD among general practice residents. Method: our observational, descriptive, cross-sectional and quantitative epidemiological study was carried out on the population of residents enrolled in general practice residency at the Montpellier-Nîmes Faculty of Medicine. A digital questionnaire including the PCL5 self-assessment scale (positivity threshold ≥ 33) was sent to them by university e-mail. A response to all questions was required for inclusion. Results: the prevalence of PTSD among general practice residents was 6.8% (95% Confidence Interval: [2.9-13]). 87.5% of affected residents were women. The context of the traumatic event was both professional and personal. The internships concerned were mainly emergency departments, followed by pediatrics. Unusual secondary reactions were systematic, and addictive behaviors were reported in 60% of cases. Discussion: our study reveals that PTSD is 6 times more prevalent in general practice residents than in the general population. The residency experience is a high-risk period for PTSD, particularly in emergency and pediatrics. These results demonstrate the value of extending investigations to residents of all specialties, and of reinforcing knowledge, prevention and screening for PTSD in order to improve residents health.