The following story originally appeared in the September 2018 edition of the Vanderbilt Radiology alumni newsletter, the Reader.
I have a passion for well-being. This has not always been the case. While I was very active during my school years, the demands of medical school and subsequent residencies and family responsibilities quickly took up all my time and energy. By 2005, self-care and my physical health had become a low priority. I wasn’t always even aware of the toll it was taking on my mental health, work satisfaction, relationships and my overall well-being. Likely, many of you have similar stories.
Today, Radiology is ranked the seventh highest specialty for burnout according to the 2018 Medscape National Physician Burnout and Depression Report. Of the 15,543 physicians surveyed for the 2018 report, 42 percent of all physicians reported burnout, with 45 percent of radiologists reporting the same.
My personal wake-up call came in the form of a diagnosis of breast cancer. From that day forward, well-being became a top priority for myself and my family. Together we created and committed to a plan, which has made it enjoyable and easier to sustain. Quickly the benefits of making well-being a top priority become obvious and abundant.
Lessons I’ve learned on my journey to well-being:
- It’s never too late (or early) to start, and even small changes can make an impact.
- One size does not fit all, or all the time: be willing to change it up when needed.
- Take a holistic approach: physical, mental and spiritual health.
- Recognizing our humanity and needs is not a sign of weakness.
- Ask for help and support.
This week I want to encourage you to take one step towards making well-being a priority in your life. That step could be to take start taking a 10-minute walk break, schedule an appointment with your doctor, or have a conversation with your family about well-being.
There are many resources available – take advantage of them!
- American Medical Association Wellness Program
- Vanderbilt’s Center for Professional Health
- Vanderbilt Faculty and Physician Wellness Program
- The Resilient Woman: Mastering the 7 Steps to Personal Power by Patricia A. O'Gorman
- Physician Mental Health and Well-Being: Research and Practice edited by Kirk J. Brower, Michelle B. Riba
I believe that a focus on well-being is essential for curbing burnout and creating a culture within Radiology that allows physicians to experience long-term satisfaction in their work and life. And we can help shape that culture.
