Are We Burning Out Our Doctors During Childhood?
How often were you called “special” as a child? Although many parents believe that this label inspires confidence in their children, an overuse of this label can put dangerous expectations on children that last throughout adulthood. Burnout and anxiety surrounding achievements and professional development can be the most harmful impacts on their future lives.
Take your healthcare workers for example. When we think of medical professionals, we often associate them with qualities like intelligence, competence, and unwavering confidence. However, a closer look at the experiences of doctors and physicians reveals that this early labeling as “special” can lead to unexpected consequences in their careers, including burnout and imposter syndrome. In addition, physicians and doctors are often seen as “elite” careers, making this predestined pathway into a goal to be attained by children given the “special” label.
With the help of Dr. Gail Gazelle MD, an Assistant Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School, a Master Certified Coach for physicians, we can dive into the hidden challenges faced by medical professionals and the impact of the “special” label.
The Label of “Special” and its Consequences
For many aspiring medical professionals, the journey begins early in life. Children who display exceptional intelligence, academic prowess, and an aptitude for problem-solving are often labeled as “special.” This early recognition can set them on a path towards a career in medicine. However, while these labels may offer encouragement and praise, they can also become the foundation for complex issues later in life.
Dr. Gazelle explains, “One of the things that can set the stage for Imposter Syndrome is when individuals, like physicians, are identified early on as the smart ones. They then get that as a fixed label, are put on a pedestal, and their identity shapes around this one aspect of who they are.” The expectation of being a “natural genius” can create a psychological burden. When these individuals encounter challenges or need to exert extra effort to accomplish tasks, they may interpret this as evidence that they are not good enough. After all, they are accustomed to success coming effortlessly, and any deviation from that pattern can trigger feelings of being an imposter.
The “Special” Burden in Healthcare
This phenomenon isn’t limited to the realm of medicine but is particularly pronounced in healthcare. Physicians, in particular, are accustomed to bearing the weight of high expectations, not just from themselves but from patients, families, and society at large. They are the embodiment of knowledge and authority in their fields. As Dr. Gazelle emphasizes, “The majority of physicians are now employees in large healthcare systems. As employees, they are no longer seen as ‘special,’ which can leave them feeling out of sorts, unsure of their place, and without the sense of standing out that they were used to.” This abrupt shift can contribute to feelings of inadequacy and imposter syndrome.
The Hidden Cause of Physician Burnout
The issue of physician burnout is not new, but the factors contributing to it are often elusive. As Dr. Gazelle points out, the early labeling of physicians as “special” and the subsequent experiences of imposter syndrome, especially when combined with the modern employment structures in healthcare, are significant causes of burnout. The need to constantly prove oneself can drain energy and enthusiasm, leading to emotional exhaustion and reduced job satisfaction.
Mindfulness as a Path to Restoration
Dr. Gazelle’s book, “Mindful MD: 6 Ways Mindfulness Restores Your Autonomy and Cures Healthcare Burnout,” explores these issues and offers strategies to combat burnout and imposter syndrome. The book delves into the roots and causes of burnout, highlights ways to reduce reactivity to external stressors, and provides guidance on cultivating upward spirals in the lives of medical professionals. One of the core themes in the book is the role of mindfulness in restoring autonomy and well-being.
Mindfulness practices can help medical professionals break free from imposter syndrome by teaching them to be present in the moment, accept their emotions, and let go of the need to be “special” all the time. These techniques encourage self-compassion and self-awareness, allowing physicians to navigate challenges with greater resilience and authenticity.
The healthcare system and society at large must acknowledge the toll this “special” label can take on the well-being of physicians and work towards providing support, resources, and a culture of self-compassion. As Dr. Gazelle suggests, mindfulness can be pivotal in navigating the complexities of the medical profession and help physicians find autonomy and peace in their careers.
