No One Should Suffer in Silence

Published on: August 16, 2023

woman with sad expression holds phone to her ear

Have you ever concluded a patient interaction, only to find yourself ruminating, "Today was undeniably demanding, and I wish I had someone to talk with who truly understands what I am feeling"? Or have you encountered moments of shame or discouragement in the wake of an unfavorable patient outcome or a medical error? If so, you’re not alone. In my professional practice with healthcare providers, this is a common feeling and can leave faculty members feeling quite alone and often suffering in silence.

The inability to process such emotions can be damaging to the healthcare worker and result in depression, anxiety, or in some cases, suicide. It has been reported that nearly 300-400 physicians die by suicide each year in the U.S. There is often a deep desire to seek solace and solidarity from those who share a similar journey, yet healthcare professionals frequently navigate instances of emotional turmoil and uncertainty alone.

In most cases, I believe, suicides could have been prevented if the shame of seeking mental health support were removed from the healthcare system, or if there were services in place to encourage asking for support in times of distress.

Understanding these unique challenges, UT Southwestern's CALM Peer Support Program emerges as a crucial lifeline, offering a supportive resource for those seeking understanding and connection.

The Advantages of Peer Support

We have found there are many advantages of engaging in peer support and exploring healthy ways to overcome adversity.

Shared Understanding: Peers comprehend the challenges and nuances of your profession, fostering a deep understanding.
Emotional Resilience: Open conversations cultivate emotional strength, enhancing your ability to navigate stress and adversity.
Privacy: Trust among peers ensures a private space to discuss concerns without fear of judgment.
Validation: Peer interactions validate your experiences, minimizing feelings of isolation and boosting self-assurance.
Reduced Burnout: Supportive connections lower burnout rates by offering outlets for venting and processing challenging situations.
Enhanced Well-Being: Engaging with peers positively impacts overall well-being and work-life satisfaction.
Stronger Team Dynamics: Peer support reinforces team cohesion, leading to improved collaboration and patient care.

I urge you to seek support, even during your toughest moments. Sharing your experiences with someone who truly understands your experience has the potential to make a transformative impact on your life.

No One Should Suffer in Silence

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The Advantages of Peer Support