This article highlights the obstacles we face for seeking mental health help and how a young psychiatrist struggled with it. A study based on a sample of 2,106 female physician-parents that appeared in General Hospital Psychiatry found almost half felt that they had met the criteria for mental illness but had not sought treatment. The main reasons for avoiding treatment cited included a belief they could handle the problem independently, finite amounts of time, fear of reporting to a medical licensing board, and the mindset that diagnosis was “embarrassing or shameful.” ACP chair of wellness Committee Dr. Wardrup stated that asking for help is a sign of strength and maturity. Remember that burnout, depression, and substance misuse disorders are not personal failings of will or spirit. If you have a problem, have it treated. Never think that you are alone. I know it may feel like it sometimes, but remember that help is around every corner.”
A Clinician who sought mental health shares his journey