Physician Wellness

Prioritizing your health & wellbeing

Long before the COVID-19 pandemic, burnout and depression were common challenges within the medical profession. Over the past two years, these challenges have exponentially multiplied due to the unrelenting and inexorable demands of the pandemic and the toll it has taken on the nation’s health system.

COVID-19 Wellness Support

Whether you’re in crisis, or just beginning to struggle with burnout or depression, talking about how you feel is the first step toward recovery. The list below includes contact information for free, confidential physician support and guidance during, and beyond, the COVID pandemic.

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
  Dial 1-800-273-TALK (8255), or text the Crisis Text Line (text HELLO to 741741).
  For more information visit the National Institute of Mental Health webpage.
• Physician Support Line
  Dial 1-800-409-0141 for confidential peer support from licensed psychiatrists who have volunteered to assist their physician colleagues during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Wellness Resources

• Physician Wellness and Burnout Tools
  This resource from the American College of Physicians provides access to TedTalks, podcasts, webinars and wellness apps focused on improving your personal well-being and satisfaction.
• Well-Being Resources
  View curated resources available from the American Psychiatric Association, included targeted interventions for depression, burnout and addiction.
• Clinician Support Tools
  Recognizing the likelihood that the COVID-19 crisis may exacerbate existing levels of burnout and mental health stressors, the National Academy of Medicine (NAM) has compiled resources to support the health and well-being of clinicians providing health care during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Free or Discounted Wellness Apps

Recognizing the need to help health care workers manage the stress of being on the front lines battling the COVID-19 pandemic, several wellness apps are now offering free access.

• Calm (AOA member discount available)
  Guided meditations, breathing exercises, sleep stories and more will alleviate stress and improve sleep. AOA members pay only $29.99 for the annual subscription (regularly $69.99). Learn more.

Additional Resources

• SAMHSA
  The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration provides a free, confidential 24/7 treatment referral routing service. Call 1-800-662-4357 or find more information on the SAMHSA website.