Stress in medicine: lessons learned through my years as a surgeon

"Medical professionals face uniquely challenging pressures. Our work itself is extremely demanding, and always has high stakes for those we care for. External circumstances that impact our work carry uncertainties that add more stress. Constantly feeling targeted as the financial solutions to greater health system issues compounds our burden.

While some choose to talk about their struggles openly, many stay silent and suffer in solitude. There is reluctance to share for fear of being judged negatively in some way. This culture of silence is harmful, and it works against medical professionals' wellness. It is time that we address our difficulties head-on."

Nina Ahuja is an ophthalmologist and author of Stress in Medicine: Lessons Learned Through My Years as a Surgeon, from Med School to Residency, and Beyond.

She shares her story and discusses her KevinMD article, "The culture of silence works against medical professionals' wellness." (https://www.kevinmd.com/blog/2021/02/the-culture-of-silence-works-against-medical-professionals-wellness.html)