This article was updated on March 29, 2024 to reflect current information
According to Medscape’s 2023 Cardiologists Lifestyle, Happiness & Burnout Report, 36-percent of participants are feeling the effects of burnout and depression. However, outlets to relieve these feelings are trending in a positive direction. The survey included 9,100 physicians from 29 separate specialties.
The Details
The report analyzes several aspects of a physician’s life, including happiness inside and outside of work, reasoning behind their displeasure, relationships with others, and steps taken to improve their feelings. Some of the major notes of the report showed:
- 29% of surveyed cardiologist reported feeling the effects of burnout. 9% reported symptoms of depression, while 14% reported falling under both categories.
- 46% of cardiologist who reported burnout said symptoms have a severe impact on their lives.
- 46% of female respondents noted that their job duties have left them conflicted as parents.
- 58% of respondents agreed with the statement that they would take less pay for improved work-life balance.
This year’s report brought light on the continued effects of burnout among cardiologists. Medscape notes that, in this year’s report, the gap between male and female physicians who said they suffered from burnout has reduced. Studies have shown that female physicians are more likely to report feeling burnout in their roles when compared to males.
Maintaining Mental Health
In order to learn more about how physicians maintain work-life balance, Medscape surveyed physicians about how they choose to protect their mental health.
The majority (42%) of surveyed physicians noted taking three to four weeks of vacation per year, while 11% said they take more than six weeks per year. Along with vacation, exercise (64%) was the second most commonly cited way to combat burnout symptoms. 45% of physicians said they exercise two to three times per week, while 22% answered four to five times per week. Spending time with family (75%) was the most popular answer.
What We Learned
2023’s report shows that physicians continue to struggle with the effects of burnout, and the impact it leaves on ones mental health. Fortunately, healthy outlets such as family time and exercise are the preferred form of stress relief in comparison to alcohol or self-isolation. The passing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic may be a cause for this healthy form of growth.
Following the COVID-19 pandemic, the discussion of work-life balance has been ongoing, as medical professionals continue to search for ways to balance personal and family time with the rigorous demands of caring for patients.
Resources: https://www.medscape.com/slideshow/2022-lifestyle-cardiologist-6014764
