Uncovering the Mental Health Stigma Doctors, Lawyers, and Other Professionals Face
On the surface, it appears logical to assume that high-status professionals are happy with their accomplishments. They’ve put in the work to attain a meaningful title like doctor or lawyer. Of course, this is true for many professionals. But they are human beings like the rest of us and, therefore, subject to the same pitfalls of life.
For example, as many as 400 physicians per year commit suicide. This trend begins in medical school and accelerates in residency, where depression is alarmingly common. You see, with social status, financial success, and personal fulfillment often comes a whole lot of stress. Unfortunately, this also causes shame, bias, and stigma.
Lawyers and Mental Health Problems: Some Numbers
The number of lawyers struggling with generalized anxiety: 62.1 percent
Depression: 45.7 percent
Social anxiety: 16.1 percent
Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder: 12.5 percent
Panic disorder: 8 percent
Bipolar disorder: 2.4 percent
Doctors and Mental Health Problems: Some Numbers
Nearly 30 percent of resident physicians report depression or depressive symptoms (compared to 8 percent of Americans in the same general age range)
16 percent of emergency physicians meet the criteria for a diagnosis of PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder diagnosis)
For frontline physicians, 36 percent of them meet the criteria for a diagnosis of PTSD
Why the Stigma?
Simply put, it is a blend of societal expectations and personal fear. Individuals viewed as successful, smart, strong, and capable of helping others are just “not supposed to” have mental health issues. If they get a physical illness or injury, it fits the profile. They work hard and play hard. But mental illness, in far too many cases, is a bridge too far.
This leads to personal fear, e.g. fear of losing respect, losing status, and losing their literal jobs. In a culture that is undereducated about mental health problems, who wants a lawyer who feels anxious or a doctor who’s been traumatized? The cycle perpetuates itself as the professional’s mental well-being suffers from concerns about being “found out.”
Addressing the Stigma of Professionals and Mental Health Problems
Talk to a Fellow Professional
A powerful and necessary first step is for individuals to seek the privacy of consulting with a primary care physician or mental health practitioner. Talk about your symptoms without attempting to diagnose yourself. This can offer a baseline as to what’s going on. At the same time, you will be talking directly to another professional work. They get it and can offer useful guidance.
Shine a Light on This Widespread Issue
In a bigger picture sense, what is desperately needed is a measured public conversation on these topics. Look at how much has changed in the realm of sports. An increasing number of amateur and professional athletes have talked publicly about their mental health struggles. This includes boxers! Is it daunting to speak up? Yes, it can be. But indications are pointing to less stigma and more acceptance.
Lean on Your Support System
This may include a spouse, family members, friends, colleagues, and more. In addition, professional organizations in your fields are making more and more resources available. If you feel comfortable doing so, you can take the step of connecting with higher-ups at your place of work to ask them to make things more welcoming when an employee is struggling.
Check Your Own Attitudes and Perceptions
Even when you are the one with mental health problems, you may be bolstering the stigma unknowingly. Check your causal language and approach when discussing such subjects with others. What beliefs have unknowingly become entrenched in your thinking? Become a role model.
Bottom line: Do not isolate yourself or suffer in silence. Reach out today if the struggle and the stigma have become overwhelming. Work-stress therapy can help you manage the stigma.