Doctors at Risk

Did you know 10-15% of physicians will develop a substance abuse disorder at some point in their career?

What programs are available to help?

Physicians as a group are well educated, extensively trained, and highly motivated. In spite of this, the many stressors of the medical profession – chronic overwork, a high-pressure environment, and a culture that places little importance on self-care – leave physicians vulnerable to mental health problems and substance abuse disorders.

According to the BC Medical Journal:

“…28% of physicians report above-average levels of stress compared with 18% of the general population.  
The results are increasing rates of burnout, depression, and even suicide.  Achieving balance in life is something that each person needs to take control of.  Being a medical practitioner is a very important job, but we all need to make sure that it doesn’t take up more of our lives than it should.”

 In BC, the Physician Health Program is an independent organization that offers free, confidential, 24/7 support and counseling to physicians, physicians-in-training, and the families of physicians. More information is available from http://physicianhealth.com/.