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Publication Date

9-1-2023

Keywords

mental health, physicians, United States, professional groups

Volume

2023

Abstract

Physicians in the United States experience elevated mental health challenges compared to the general population of the US and other professional groups. Owing to the significant demands placed on their time, emotional resilience, and effectiveness, many physicians in the United States encounter mental health challenges that surpass the national average by approximately 1.5 times. Because of these challenges, physicians hesitate to seek help due to licensure complications, stigmatization, and a culture of perfectionism and independence. As a result, physicians are more likely to develop habits of substance abuse, especially alcohol. Rates of alcohol abuse are about 3 times higher among physicians in the US than among the general US population. Current best practices indicate that intervention is most effective during their medical school education, which can help reduce the onset of mental health challenges later in their career.

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