Physician Wellness and Substance Use-a Brief Review

Abstract

EditorialThe issueIn recent years there has been an increased discussion of topics related to physician "burnout" and the interplay between this and the rising rates of suicide and substance use among physicians. According to recent surveys, the endorsed rates of burnout symptomatology range from 25% to 69% depending on specialty and these have increased from 2011 to 2015 [1,2]. When it comes to occupational related stress, up to 88% of physicians feel they are under moderatesevere stress [3]. The majority do not foresee our field changing for the better to allow for a work life balance and 6 out of 10 physicians would not recommend a career in medicine to their children [4]. Early recognitionRecognizing signs of depression or substance use in a fellow physician is challenging and confronting or reporting suspicion can make for a difficult conversation. An addicted physician may continue to function at a high level with no behavioural changes [18]. J o u rna l of A lc o h o lis m and D ru g D ep enden c e

Burnout in Academic Physicians

“…Physician substance abuse, inclusive of drugs and alcohol, is estimated to be 10% to 15%, whereas the rate in the general population is 9%. 29 For physicians with burnout, the risk of suicidal ideation is doubled. 30,31 This added risk is substantial, as physicians inherently have a much higher risk of suicide: 40% higher in males and 130% higher in females as compared to males and females, respectively, in the general population.…”