SUMMARY
Physicians are frequently exposed to adverse events on the work-floor, putting them at risk for mental health disorders. To explore this, a questionnaire was emailed to all members of the Dutch Society of Orthopaedic Surgeons, which included the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and the Trauma Screening Questionnaire Common events considered a high emotional impact stressor were: missing a diagnosis, when a patient becomes severely handicapped, or doubting whether one is making the right decision.Prevalence of depression and anxiety was higher compared to the general population with a high income. Fifty-seven participants experienced an adverse event as traumatic. Most common coping strategies after adverse events were support from colleagues, support from friends and family, or doing sports.Overall, this study illustrates that more awareness must be created for the mental health of physicians as well as the implementation of a well-organized support system.