Are Surgeons Overworked: The Burnout Many Surgeons Experience

Ashaar Bakshi

Burnout is an increasingly common issue that many surgeons face. Deeply rooted in the profession, surgeons have to deal with many years of training, long hours, high-stakes procedures, and the emotional toll of patient outcomes. The combination of these factors are likely what leads to the high rates of burnout in surgeons compared to other professions. Research indicates that mental burnout often begins as early as medical school. While students typically start with mental health levels comparable to their peers, their well-being tends to decline during training. Residency further contributes to the problem, with about 40 percent of surgical residents claiming to experience burnout.

According to the American College of Surgeons, 40 percent of surgeons screened positively for burnout, and 30 percent screened positively for symptoms of depression. When surgeons were screened, these are the factors that were most associated with increased burnout rates:

  • Purely incentive-based compensation
  • having a spouse who works as a healthcare professional
  • increasing nights on call
  • Having children younger than 21
  • Trauma surgeons have the highest rate of burnout out of all surgery specialities 

Symptoms of Burnout

While burnout looks different for each individual, there are some common symptoms of burnout (CaliberHealth). It is important to note that these symptoms are not specific to surgeon-related burnout, but rather to anyone experiencing burnout. Symptoms include:

  • Lack of energy
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Insomina
  • Disengagement
  • Changes in appetite 
  • Depression
  • Anxiety

Consequences of Burnout

Burnout is dangerous because it affects the surgeon, the surgeon’s family, the patient, and the healthcare system as a whole. Burnout leads to emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and a low sense of personal accomplishment for the surgeon. Additionally, it is closely linked to depression & anxiety and can lead to worse outcomes, such as alcohol or substance abuse. Burnout impacts relationships and leads to higher divorce rates. In terms of the patient and overall healthcare system, high burnout rates are linked with a greater likelihood of committing a major medical error and sacrificing the quality of care.

Preventing Burnout

Preventing burnout among surgeons requires both personal and systemic effort. Establishing a healthier work-life balance allows surgeons to rest, nurture relationships, and find fulfillment beyond work. Restoring a sense of purpose by focusing on what is meaningful is important. Practicing mindfulness, conscious gratitude, and celebrating small victories are all strategies that are proven to help prevent burnout. There is also professional support available, such as therapists who can provide tools for managing stress. Ultimately, it’s okay to recognize that going for a run or reading a book probably isn’t going to fix severe burnout. Surgeons must find fulfillment in their practice and learn how to balance what matters to them most.

Copy editor: Jocelyn Doan

Photography source: https://www.creativefabrica.com/product/medical-interns-watching-surgery/