Through the Lens of Your Mental Health
摘要
Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, physicians more commonly experienced burnout and depression than the general population, with these conditions impacting almost a third of medical residents and anywhere from 13% to 20% of attending physicians. Unfortunately, suicide rates are also higher in these groups, and we are painfully aware of the widely publicized deaths of those like New York Emergency Department physician, Dr. Lorna Breen. Despite experiencing remarkable levels of emotional distress, healthcare professionals are less likely than the general public to seek mental health treatment, with roughly 40% of physicians reporting hesitation to engage in care. The very characteristics that serve individuals well in the care environment—problem-solving, leadership, organization, and compassion—can create challenges for providers as they’re faced with the ever-changing environment of healthcare. This chapter highlights steps practitioners can take to support their mental health during training and beyond.