Combating Physician Burnout in Psychiatry: A Comprehensive Guide

By any metric, burnout is a pressing issue in medicine, and psychiatry is no exception. The potential impacts on patient care are a major concern, making it essential to address this problem head-on.

The book “Combating Physician Burnout: A Guide for Psychiatrists” is a pioneering effort in this field, focusing specifically on the challenges faced by psychiatrists. Edited by renowned experts on physician burnout, this volume brings together contributions from leading authorities in the field, including academic and community psychiatrists, residency and medical student educators, and members of the American Psychiatric Association Work Group on Psychiatrist Well-being and Burnout.

Understanding the Scope of the Problem

The book is divided into five sections, each shedding light on a different aspect of burnout. The introduction provides historical context and social perspective, helping psychiatrists struggling with burnout to understand they are not alone.

The Continuum of Stress, Burnout, and Impairment

The second section delves into the far-reaching effects of burnout on clinical care, including depression and suicide among physicians. It’s essential to recognize the warning signs and take proactive steps to mitigate these risks.

Environmental Factors Contributing to Burnout

The third section examines the environmental factors that contribute to burnout, such as the electronic health record and the challenge of balancing professional and personal demands. By identifying these factors, psychiatrists can develop strategies to overcome them.

Systemic and Individual Interventions

The fourth section presents a range of potential solutions, including organizational screening for burnout, peer review and support, and mindfulness training and meditation. These interventions can be tailored to individual needs, providing a comprehensive approach to combating burnout.

The Ethical Imperative of Addressing Burnout

The final section tackles the moral challenge posed by burnout to the profession of psychiatry. It’s essential to recognize the ethical implications of ignoring burnout and to take collective responsibility for promoting well-being and resilience among psychiatrists.

This guide offers practical advice and a unique psychiatric perspective on burnout, making it an invaluable resource for psychiatrists at any career stage.

Product Details:

• Publisher: American Psychiatric Association Publishing
• Publication Date: November 5, 2019
• Language: English
• ISBN: 9781615372270 (Print) | 9781615372720 (E-book)