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Overcoming Physician Impostor Syndrome

Overcoming Physician Impostor Syndrome

In this article we look at the impact of impostor syndrome on physicians and patients. We then explore 5 steps in overcoming physician impostor syndrome.

As we’ve discussed in Part I, Impostor syndrome is highly prevalent and has multiple causes. Furthermore, it can have a range of negative effects on physicians, from decreased job satisfaction and confidence to missed diagnoses and poor patient outcomes. It’s important for physicians to recognize the symptoms of impostor syndrome and seek help to overcome it so that we can provide the best care possible to our patients. 

It's important for physicians to recognize the symptoms of impostor syndrome and seek help to overcome it so that we can provide the best care possible to our patients.

Impact of impostor syndrome on doctors

The impact of impostor syndrome on doctors can be significant. When doctors experience these feelings, we may become overly self-critical and start to doubt our abilities. This can lead to decreased confidence and decreased job satisfaction, which can affect the quality of care we provide to our patients.

Moreover, impostor syndrome can have a range of negative effects on physicians, both personally and professionally. Here are some of the most significant ones:

  1. Decreased job satisfaction: When doctors are constantly battling feelings of self-doubt and insecurity, it can take a toll on our overall job satisfaction. This can lead to burnout, decreased motivation, and a general sense of unhappiness in our work.
  2. Decreased confidence: Impostor syndrome can lead to a decrease in confidence, which can make it difficult for doctors to make decisions and take actions in our work. This can be particularly problematic in high-pressure, time-sensitive medical situations, where quick and confident decision making is crucial.
  3. Burnout: The high stress and responsibility that comes with being a physician, combined with feelings of self-doubt, can lead to burnout. This can result in physical and emotional exhaustion, decreased job performance, and a general sense of dissatisfaction with one’s work. We are in the grip of a Burnout epidemic. 
  4. Personal stress: The negative impact of impostor syndrome can extend beyond the workplace and affect a physician’s personal life. The constant stress and anxiety of feeling like a fraud can take a toll on our mental and emotional well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. 

Impostor syndrome can lead to a decrease in confidence, which can make it difficult for doctors to make decisions and take actions in our work. This can be particularly problematic in high-pressure, time-sensitive medical situations, where quick and confident decision making is crucial.

Impact of impostor syndrome on patients

Impostor syndrome can have a significant impact on patient care, as it can affect a physician’s confidence, decision-making, and overall job performance. Here are some of the ways that physician impostor syndrome can negatively impact patient care:

  1. Missed diagnoses: When physicians are experiencing impostor syndrome, we may hesitate to make bold decisions or take risks, which can lead to missed diagnoses. This can result in delayed treatments and poor patient outcomes.
  2. Delayed treatments: Physician impostor syndrome can also lead to delays in treatment. When doctors are feeling uncertain or lack confidence in our abilities, we may take longer to make decisions, order tests, or make referrals, which can have a negative impact on patient care. Missed diagnoses and delayed treatments, which can result in poor patient outcomes.
  3. Reduced patient confidence: Impostor syndrome can lead to reduced confidence in physicians, which can affect our ability to make decisions, communicate with patients, and provide care. This can make patients feel less confident in our doctor’s ability to diagnose and treat our medical conditions.

How to overcome medical imposter syndrome

So, how can physicians overcome impostor syndrome? Here are some tips:

  1. Seek support from colleagues: Talking to other physicians about your feelings can help you realize that you’re not alone and that many others experience similar feelings. Try out a FREE Physicians Anonymous peer-support group – a safe space for medical humans, both impostors and genuine to meet. 
  2. Focus on your strengths: Make a list of your skills and accomplishments and remind yourself of them regularly. Celebrate your successes and don’t dwell on your failures. You did not get to where you are by fluke. 
  3. Practice self-care: Taking care of your physical and mental health can help you feel more confident and in control.
  4. Reframe your thinking: Instead of thinking “I’m not good enough,” try thinking “I’m doing the best I can.”
  5. Seek professional help: If your impostor syndrome is affecting your work or personal life, consider seeking the help of a coach, therapist or counselor.

5 points to overcome medical impostor syndrome: Support - Strengths - Self-care - Seek - Reframe."

Conclusion: Overcoming Physician Impostor Syndrome

In conclusion, impostor syndrome is a common issue among physicians, and it can have negative effects on both doctors and our patients. 

By seeking support, focusing on strengths, practicing self-care, reframing thinking, and seeking professional help, physicians can overcome impostor syndrome and provide the best care possible to our patients.

Join our Physicians Anonymous confidential peer-support groups here.

 (Please share the existence of our groups at your hospital and  on social media!)

For individual PA-approved  physician-to-physician  coaching support – completely off the record – please click here.

Dr Corrigan

Dr Corrigan

A recovering physician who left medicine after burning out and more. Overachiever. Impostor syndrome. Addict. Had never heard of Corrigan's Secret Door* until it was too late. Co-founded Physicians Anonymous with intention to solve physician burnout, mental illness, and addiction. Hopes to prevent future medical career disasters through peer support, advocacy, policy change, and innovation. * https://physiciansanonymous.org/corrigans-secret-door-and-other-stories/

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