National Doctors’ Day is a special occasion dedicated to honoring the remarkable contributions of physicians to society. This day offers an opportunity to recognize the tireless efforts, dedication, and compassion of doctors who play a crucial role in maintaining the health and well-being of communities worldwide. From pioneering medical advancements to providing personalized patient care, doctors embody the essence of service and commitment, often going above and beyond the call of duty. National Doctors’ Day serves as a reminder to appreciate and celebrate these healthcare heroes, acknowledging their indispensable role in saving lives and improving the quality of life for countless individuals.
Medical professionals face significant mental health challenges due to high stress, long hours, and emotional demands, impacting their well-being and patient care quality. Addressing these issues is crucial for a healthier healthcare system.
“The fast pace of critical care medicine keeps me on my toes, constantly pushing me to deliver the best possible care. It’s a challenge I thrive on, and witnessing a patient’s recovery is the ultimate reward. But even the most dedicated doctor needs to refuel. Regular workouts keep me energized, and travel allows me to hit the reset button. Building resilience is an ongoing process, but it’s vital. By prioritizing well-being, we ensure we can consistently show up for our patients with unwavering focus and compassion. After all, the best care comes from a healthy doctor.” Attribute by Dr Himanshu Sharma, MBBS, MD
“Due to the life-or-death nature of their work, medical personnel frequently experience significant levels of stress. This is exacerbated by long hours, a high patient load, administrative responsibilities, and a constant high stress environment. Burnout is a serious problem that is typified by cynicism, a sense of diminished professional performance, and physical and emotional tiredness. It is frequently brought on by extended stress, an unbalanced work-life schedule, and ongoing exposure to trauma and suffering. Compared to the general population, medical professionals are more likely to experience depression and anxiety due to factors like ongoing stress, lack of sleep, and the emotional strain of caring for patients.
There are several obstacles to getting care, including stigma from the medical community that views mental health problems as weakness.
Many people are deterred from getting the help they need by this cultural stigma as well as their fear of professional repercussions like losing their medical licenses or experiencing job difficulties. Vicarious trauma, which can result in secondary traumatic stress disorder, compassion fatigue, and emotional numbness, can be brought on by routine exposure to patients’ suffering and tragic experiences. Furthermore, working in high-stress settings with little emotional support and insufficient mental health resources and support programs inside healthcare facilities, medical workers frequently experience feelings of isolation and a lack of the essential support networks.” Attributed by Priyanka Kapoor, Psychologist, Psychotherapist & Relationship counselling
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“Supporting the mental health of mental healthcare providers is vital yet often overlooked, impacting both their well-being and patient care. Addressing this issue is not just a personal matter but a public health imperative. International and national organizations, such as the World Psychiatric Association and the Indian Psychiatric Society, must urgently prioritize this concern. Effective solutions are needed to ensure the resilience and effectiveness of mental health professionals, ultimately enhancing the quality of care they provide.” Attributed by Dr. Apurrva Sawant: a distinguished Preventive Healthcare Expert
“Is it easy to always have all the answers? How do you go through life knowing the weight of life hangs heavy on your shoulders? Doctors, nurses, the guardians of health, fight silent battles within. The weight of every decision, the constant pressure to be a hero in a system so strained, takes a toll on their mental health. This pressure leads to burnout, anxiety, and even suicidal ideation. We need systemic changes and an environment where seeking help is considered normal and even encouraged. Addressing these challenges are essential to help those who help us.
Behind the white coats and stethoscopes, healthcare providers silently wrestle with their own mental health battles. The relentless pace of patient care, compounded by administrative burdens and the fear of making critical errors, leaves many feeling overwhelmed and emotionally drained. Yet, in a profession built on healing, seeking help for mental health struggles remains taboo for far too many. Recognising and addressing these challenges demands more than just awareness—it requires a compassionate overhaul of healthcare systems, where emotional well-being is valued as highly as clinical expertise, ensuring that those who care for others can also find the care they need themselves.” Attributed by Parvathi S Kumar, Consultant Psychologist, The Happiness Theory
“In the medical community, mental health problems are stigmatized, which frequently discourages medical workers from getting treatment. One major obstacle can be the fear of being seen as weak or inept. Dealing with circumstances involving life and death is common for medical personnel, which can cause chronic stress. There can be a lot of pressure to make decisions fast and accurately. The rigorous schedules can also cause disruptions in one’s personal life, leaving less time for leisure and socializing.
Mental health challenges in the medical profession are a significant concern due to the high-stress environment, long working hours, and emotional demands faced by healthcare providers.
Burnout can be decreased by implementing work-life balance measures like required breaks, time off, and realistic working hours. Providing healthcare professionals with resilience, stress management, and self-care training can help them better manage their mental health.” Attributed by by Dr Nikhil Nayar, Psychiatrist, Sharda Hospital
“Maintaining emotional balance is crucial for doctors to provide the best care to their patients. When patients are at their lowest emotional, mental, and physical state, it becomes a significant challenge for doctors to remain a source of strength without being mentally and emotionally impacted. This focus on duty is essential, especially in situations of great distress or extreme outcomes.
Effective communication with patients and their families is vital to set realistic expectations. Doctors must balance empathy, compassion, and their duty of care to ensure they can serve the sick and suffering effectively.
By maintaining this balance, doctors not only support the emotional well-being of their patients but also contribute to quicker recovery. Staying centered and focused enables healthcare professionals to offer the highest quality of care, ensuring that patients receive the support they need during their most vulnerable times.” Attributed by Dr. Geeta Grewal, Celebrity Cosmetologist and Founder of 9Muses Wellness Clinic, Gurugram & 9M Skincare
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“On this Doctors’ Day, I want to highlight a vital yet often overlooked aspect of the medical profession: mental health challenges. Our dedicated healthcare professionals, who tirelessly care for others, often face immense stress and emotional strain. The pressure to provide exceptional care, coupled with long hours and high-stakes environments, can lead to burnout, anxiety, and depression. It is imperative that we recognize these challenges and foster a culture of support and understanding within the medical community. By prioritizing mental health, we can ensure that our doctors remain resilient and continue to deliver the compassionate care that patients depend on. Let us honr our doctors not just for their medical expertise but also by acknowledging and addressing the mental health struggles they endure.” Attributed by Dr. Malini Saba, Founder & Chairperson, Anannke Foundation, Psychologist & Human Rights Activist
“Medical professionals face significant stressors, leading to potential burnout, anxiety, and even panic attacks. Recommend several strategies for doctors to monitor their stress levels.
- Self-awareness is key. First up, listen to the body. Getting snappy or foggy-headed? Disturbed sleep patterns? Might be early stress signals.
- Deep breathing, yoga, meditation can be powerful tools to manage stress and prevent escalation into anxiety.
- Taking breaks throughout the day for short walks or mindfulness practices can help manage stress.
- Disconnecting from work emails and calls outside of work hours is crucial for true relaxation.
- Setting clear boundaries between work and personal life allows for time to recharge and prioritize mental health.
- Taking care of mental well-being is not selfish here; it’s essential for our community. Seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor on a regular basis can prevent things from getting worse.”
Attribute by Mansi Poddar, a Trauma informed Psychotherapist, Psychologist
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