Mental health for doctors - Stress Busters

When compared to the general population (10 %), doctors (80 %) have high rates of mental health problems like
Depression,
Anxiety,
Addiction to alcohol and substances like opioid & Cannabis
Misuse of prescription drugs ,
Emotional exhaustion or ‘burnout’.
Suicide rates are also high among doctors, particularly female doctors. It is crucial for doctors to take care of their mental well-being

1. Dr. C. PANNEER SELVAN, MD. (Psych); (NIMHANS) SENIOR CONSULTANT PSYCHIATRIST SNEKA MIND CARE HOSPITAL TIRUNELVELI STRESS BUSTERS FOR DOCTORS

2. Does mental health matter to doctors? India  is witnessing an alarming rise in premature deaths among doctors. A recent study by Anil Kumar et al (JIMA 2022) reports that an Indian doctor’s average lifespan (55-59 years) is almost 10 years less than that of the general population (69-72 years). Suicide rate in Indian doctors are two times more than the general population.

3. Does mental health matter to doctors?

4. Doctor professions H ospitals were considered to be temples and d octors were treated like gods in the past. But today there is a shift. Doctors are no longer treated with due respect; they are considered as businessman and profit makers.

5. MEDICINE IS STRESSFUL … Medical profession is one of the most stressful occupations According to a research study. 30% of Indian doctors go through depression 17% have experienced suicidal thoughts Almost 80% of doctors are at risk of burnout during their career.

6. MENTAL HEALTH PROBLEMS IN DOCTORS When compared to the general population (10 % - 15 %) doctors ( 20% -30 %) have high rates of mental health problems like Depression, Anxiety, Addiction to alcohol Misuse of prescription drugs (Alprazolam, Clonazepam, Lorazepam) Emotional exhaustion or ‘burnout’.

7. MENTAL HEALTH PROBLEMS IN DOCTORS Recently published article in the Indian Journal of Critical Care Medicine (2022) reports that 21% of doctors consume alcohol in higher volumes 18% are dependent on antidepressants 14% are heavy smokers Docs as well as nurses who work in the ICU routinely report auditory hallucinations- meaning they hear the emergency beeps even when they are not at work.

8. RISK FACTORS Indian doctors are under high pressure. Have many stressors, such as Working for long hours High expectations from patients and relatives The public is putting much unrealistic pressure on doctors. Verbal, emotional, and sometimes physical abuse at the hands of patients/caregivers

9. INDIVIDUAL RISK FACTORS Personality traits of doctors like excessive perfectionism. Excessive sense of responsibility, Desire to please everyone, Fear of litigation are some of the reasons for mental health issues among doctors.

10. BARRIERS TO SEEKING HELP Despite the elevated prevalence of mental health issues among physicians Unfortunately, doctors are often reluctant to seek mental health treatment. Stigma Fear of discrimination Fears regarding confidentiality Lack of time (91.5%), Preference to manage problems on their own (75.1 )

11. WHY SHOULD DOCTORS TO CONCERN ABOUT STRESS ? WHO reports that Stress and depression is the second leading cause of premature death and disability among worldwide (including doctors) . Unattended stress and depression can lead to Loss of happiness, Interpersonal strain with spouse and children Sedentary life style Stress and depression are the independed risk factor for developing DM/ HT/ Hyper cholestrolemia /IHD/ CVA

12. Stress busters for doctors

13. Have some "me time" Many of us work long hours, workaholics and often don't spend enough time for ourselves. It's important to make some time for ourself.- me time Take some time for Relaxation Exercise Socialization Quality time with family

14. Stay connected Always stay connected with your colleagues, friends and family By connecting with others, you can lower your stress level It helps you to see things differently. Research evidence shows that activities and quality time spent with your friends and family can help you relax and relieve stress.

15. .EXPRESS & SHARE YOUR FEELINGS Talk to others Ventilate your negative emotions Share your feelings with someone you trust. Ventilation can help you to lower your stress level

16. EXERCISE REGULARLY Physical activities play a key role in stress management and healthy living. Make time for at least 30 minutes of exercise regularly.

17. PHYSICAL EXERCISE Physical exercise can improve stress and depression Daily 30 minutes of exercise for three to five days a week may significantly improve stress , depression & anxiety The exercise intervention consisted of brisk walking for 30 to 40 minutes 3 to 5 times per week for 6 weeks can alleviate overall symptoms of depression and anxiety. (Doyne et al 2017) Regular exercise may reduce stress hormone, release endogenous endorphins & mono amines

18. LEARN TO RELAX MIND

19. RELAX – breathing exercise Studies show that diaphragmatic breathing may reduce your stress, anxiety & depression Practice 4 7 8 breathing method to reduce your stress Close your lips and inhale through your nose for a count of four.   Hold your breath for a count of seven.   Exhale completely through your mouth making a whoosh sound for a count of eight . (This completes one cycle ) Do 3 cycles at least 4 to 5 times per day. It will help you to relieve your stress and anxiety.

20. YOGA Scientifically proved that yoga is effective in reducing depression & anxiety Yoga in depression includes 3 components . Which includes breath control (pranayama), physical postures (asanas) and meditation (dhyana). Yoga can also: Reduce resting heart rate Lower blood pressure Ease breathing Increase pain tolerance

21. EAT WELL

22. SLEEPWELL Stress and sleep go hand and hand. For a healthy mind you need sleep at least seven to eight hours per day. Do not compromise on sleep

23. INTELLECTUAL WELLNESS Reed books Reading can relax your body by lowering your heart rate and decreasing muscle tension. A 2009 study at the University of Sussex found that reading can reduce stress by up to 68%.” No gadget readings Excessive screen reading can lead to digital eyestrain and impact sleeping cycles

24. Seeking Professional Help It is crucial for doctors to recognize when professional help is needed. By consulting with a psychologist or psychiatrist, doctors can learn strategies to manage stress and address any underlying mental health conditions.

25. KEEP BALANCE AMONG FAMILY, WORK, LEISURE & FRIENDS Be positive Maintain balance among good work - life balance

26. MAKE TIME FOR FUN Stay active If you’re at OPD for more than an hour take a short walk around the office, Standing up and stretching after sitting for more than an hour can help you to relieve your stress Always Choose staircase instead of the lift. . Engage in recreational activities

27. FOUR HAPPY HORMONES   Dopamine - achieved goals (car, home, child got married) Endorphin- physical exercise Serotonin – doing act benefit other ( social service) Oxytocin – close to other (socialization , hug , shake some one hand)

28. “NO HEALTH WITHOUT MENTAL HEALTH”

29. THANK YOU