Mental Health for Psychiatrists:I. The Current State of Mental Imbalance Among Psychiatrists and Countermeasures
10.22722/KJPM.2025.33.2.31
- Author:
Ji Young SONG
1
Author Information
1. Department of Psychiatry, Seoul Sacred Heart General Hospital, Seoul, Korea
- Publication Type:Special Articles
- From:Korean Journal of Psychosomatic Medicine
2025;33(2):31-40
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
The author reviewed domestic and international literature on the mental health of psychiatrists and, based on his clinical experience, sought to identify the characteristics of mental imbalances among psychiatrists and identify countermeasures. Most studies on the mental health of psychiatrists were conducted abroad, with no do-mestic studies identified. The results indicate that a significant number of psychiatrists struggle with depression, burnout, substance abuse, and anxiety disorders. A significant proportion of residents also suffer from these disorders, suggesting that a significant number of psychiatrists in Korea are likely to experience these challenges aswell. To develop countermeasures, a thorough understanding of the current situation is essential. However, considering the number of cases requiring urgent treatment, appropriate support measures are crucial. There are obstaclesfor psychiatrists seeking help for mental imbalances. Most importantly, it is difficult for the general public to un-derstand and accept that psychiatrists struggle with mental health issues. Prejudice against psychiatrists often results in psychiatrists concealing their own illnesses requiring treatment, attempting to resolve them on their own,or only seeking treatment after their symptoms worsen. If a psychiatrist suffers from a mental health issue, theyshould not attempt to resolve their problems through self-prescription, as this can lead to medication misuse. Furthermore, an environment where psychiatrists (including psychiatry residents) can comfortably receive treatmentshould be created. I believe that specially designed clinics and support systems are necessary to ensure psychiatrists can receive treatment with ease. Specialized clinics should be considerate of appointment times, consider financialburden, and, above all, guarantee complete anonymity. Furthermore, as physicians specializing in the psychiatricfield, psychiatrists should possess greater mental capacity than the general public or other specialists. This is a nat-ural requirement for patients as well. To achieve this, psychiatrists should develop self-care methods appropriate for themselves and cultivate their minds.
