physician wellness
There are joys and challenges of being a physician. Developing meaningful connections with patients, solving complex problems, and positively impacting lives can be extremely rewarding. Some physicians also experience common difficulties that present obstacles to maintaining self-care, mental & physical health, and wellness.
At Psychology Works of California, we are passionate about providing psychological services and support to diverse physician communities. We specialize in evidence-based strategies to help physicians across stages of career and specialties achieve optimal health, wellness, and performance.
Our psychologists proudly serve as a trusted resource for the physician community.
common areas of concern for physicians include
Frequently Asked Questions about Physician Wellness
What causes the decline in mental health of physicians?
Physicians often experience high levels of stress due to the nature of their work. Constant exposure to life-or-death situations, time pressures, and the emotional toll of caring for critically ill patients lead to burnout. Factors such as long hours, lack of sleep, high patient loads, and the pressure to make fast decisions exacerbate this stress. Over time, this can result in a decline in mental health, increasing vulnerability to depression, anxiety, and burnout.
How many physicians face mental health issues?
Research shows that approximately 1 in 4 physicians experience significant mental health challenges. Studies estimate that 40-60% of physicians report symptoms of burnout, while nearly 30% struggle with depression or depressive symptoms. Emergency room physicians, in particular, face even higher rates of mental health issues due to the intense nature of their work.
What stigma prevents physicians from seeking help?
Many physicians worry that seeking mental health care will be perceived as a sign of weakness or incompetence by their peers, employers, and patients. Fear of judgment, concern about career repercussions, and the perception that doctors must remain “tough” in the face of adversity often lead to resistance. There is also anxiety about potential licensing or credentialing repercussions, which can further deter physicians from seeking help.
What stigmas do physicians have that prevent them from seeking support?
Physicians are often driven by perfectionism, high achievement, and a sense of responsibility toward their patients. This can lead to a belief that they should be immune to the emotional challenges faced by others, and that seeking help is a personal or professional failure. Many believe that they are supposed to be “strong” and should not need assistance, which creates an internal barrier to acknowledging their own needs for mental health care.
Can a physician seek mental health support?
Absolutely. Physicians, like any other professional, are entitled to prioritize their well-being. Many physicians find it beneficial to work with psychologists, psychiatrists, or therapists who understand the unique pressures of their profession. Confidentiality is key in these sessions, and seeking mental health care is a proactive step that can enhance both personal wellness and professional performance.
Why do medical doctors often avoid seeking mental health treatment?
The culture of medicine can contribute to doctors not seeking mental health treatment. Long-held beliefs about self-reliance, fear of being seen as vulnerable, and worries about career advancement can make doctors hesitant to get help. In many cases, there is also a lack of time and energy due to demanding schedules, which makes it difficult to prioritize mental health care.
Is seeking mental health treatment as a doctor acceptable?
Yes, it is not only acceptable but encouraged. Seeking mental health treatment can help doctors maintain their emotional resilience, improve their performance at work, and foster more meaningful personal relationships. By addressing stress, burnout, or other mental health challenges, physicians can find renewed energy and clarity to thrive both professionally and personally.
Why do 40% of doctors not seek mental health care?
About 40% of physicians do not seek mental health care because of concerns over professional repercussions, such as potential impact on their medical license or insurance. There is also an ingrained culture of toughness and an expectation to “power through” difficulties, which can make it hard to admit when help is needed. For some, the stigma around mental health care can seem insurmountable, but changing attitudes and increasing support for physician wellness is helping to combat these barriers.