In the beautiful- cruel world of medicine, physicians are revered as invincible healers—pillars of strength, wisdom, and resilience. We bear the immense responsibility of safeguarding the health and lives of others. But behind the white coats and professional facades, doctors are human too, grappling with the same vulnerabilities as anyone else.
Yet, paradoxically, many physicians struggle to seek help for ourselves when we face challenges, whether personal, professional, or psychological. The reluctance to reach out stems from various factors, but a common and poignant reason is the sentiment, “I don’t want to be a burden.”
From the earliest days of medical training, physicians are immersed in a culture that prizes stoicism, self-reliance, and an almost superhuman stress endurance. Long hours, sleepless nights, and intense workloads become the new normal. This environment teaches the belief that asking for help equates to weakness. In competitive medicine, being seen as weak is unacceptable to most, terrifying to some. We fear career limitation, discrimination, and licensing issues by permitting ourselves to “be weak”.
As Dr Dike Drummond put it: ‘The unbending principles drummed into every doctor during years of med school, residency, and hospital work: “The patient comes first” and “Never show weakness.”’
The unbending principles drummed into every doctor during years of med school, residency, and hospital work: “The patient comes first” and “Never show weakness.” -- Dike Drummond, MD.
Physicians are trained to prioritize our patients above all else, often to the detriment of our own well-being. We become conditioned to suppress their own needs and emotions, perpetuating a cycle of neglect for their mental and physical health.
This culture of self-sacrifice can make it incredibly difficult — and dangerous– for us to admit we are struggling or to take the necessary steps to seek support.
Another significant barrier to reaching out is the fear of judgment—from peers, supervisors, and even patients. Physicians often worry that seeking help might lead others to question their competence or dedication to their work. In a profession where trust and credibility are paramount, the fear of being perceived as “unfit” can be paralyzing.
Compounding this is the potential for professional repercussions. In many jurisdictions, physicians are required to disclose any mental health treatment when applying for or renewing their medical licenses. This can create a chilling effect, as doctors may fear that admitting to mental health struggles could jeopardize their careers.
The paradox is cruel: the very system meant to support physicians often discourages us from seeking the help we need.
The paradox is cruel: the very system meant to support physicians often discourages us from seeking the help we need." - Dominic Corrigan, MD
The reluctance to seek help can have devastating consequences. Rates of burnout, depression, and anxiety among physicians are alarmingly high, with some studies suggesting that nearly half of all doctors experience symptoms of burnout. Tragically, physicians also face an elevated risk of suicide compared to the general population.
This silent suffering not only affects the individual physician but also has ripple effects on patient care, healthcare systems, and families. Burned-out or mentally unwell doctors are more prone to errors, less empathetic, and more likely to leave the profession prematurely, exacerbating the already dire physician shortage.
Addressing the pervasive belief that seeking help is burdensome requires a cultural shift within the medical profession. Here are some strategies to build a more supportive environment:
Medical institutions and leaders must take the lead in normalizing vulnerability. Sharing stories of physicians who have sought help and thrived can help dismantle the stigma. When senior doctors and mentors openly discuss their own challenges and how they overcame them, it sends a powerful message: it’s okay to struggle, and it’s okay to seek support.
Physicians need access to confidential mental health services that don’t require disclosure to licensing boards or employers. Programs like Physicians Anonymous, which provides a safe space for doctors to share their struggles and find support without fear of judgment, are invaluable. These resources should be widely promoted and easily accessible.
Creating safe space formal and informal peer support networks can help physicians feel less isolated. Peer groups provide a space for doctors to connect with others who understand their unique challenges, building camaraderie and shared empathy, and realizing we are not alone! In fact there are ~49% of us with at least some symptoms of burnout, according to MedScape (2024).
Policies that penalize physicians for seeking mental health treatment must be reformed. Licensing boards should focus on a physician’s ability to practice safely rather than blanket inquiries into their mental health history. Such changes would encourage more physicians to seek help without fear of jeopardizing their careers.
While the demands of medicine can be relentless, institutions must prioritize physician well-being. This includes promoting self-care, offering flexible schedules, and addressing systemic issues like excessive workloads and administrative burdens. A culture that values doctors as whole individuals—not just as providers—is essential.
Organizations like Physicians Anonymous exemplify the power of community in breaking down barriers to seeking help. By providing a judgment-free platform where doctors can share their experiences, seek advice, and offer support, such initiatives remind physicians that we are not alone.
These communities validate the struggles of doctors while empowering us to take steps toward healing.
To all physicians reading this: You are not a burden. Your struggles, fears, and feelings are valid. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness; it’s a courageous step toward reclaiming your well-being and ensuring you can continue to care for others.
To institutions, policymakers, and society at large: We must do better. Supporting the well-being of physicians is not just an ethical imperative but a practical one. Healthy doctors provide better care, build stronger healthcare systems, and inspire the next generation of medical professionals.
The path forward requires collective effort, but the message is clear: No physician should ever feel alone in their struggles.
Together, we can create a world where asking for help is seen not as a burden but as a vital act of self-care and strength.
