Burnout, Depression, and Diminished Well-Being among Physicians

This article critically examines the constructs of burnout and depression as they relate to physician well-being. Tracing the evolution and definitional challenges of burnout especially with the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) the authors argue that imprecise measurement has hampered intervention design and progress. In contrast, depression offers a more rigorously defined and measurable construct for tracking distress and evaluating reforms. The article reviews data from residents and practicing physicians, highlighting long work hours, administrative burden, and organizational culture as primary drivers of poor well-being. It presents a public health framework emphasizing system-level interventions like workload reduction, EHR support, and improved access to mental health care alongside individual-level strategies such as mindfulness and therapy. Special attention is given to the unique challenges faced by women and underrepresented minorities in medicine. The article concludes that while burnout raised awareness, future progress depends on standardized measures, longitudinal tracking, and investment in systemic, equity-centered reforms.

This article critically examines the constructs of burnout and depression as they relate to physician well-being. Tracing the evolution and definitional challenges of burnout especially with the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) the authors argue that imprecise measurement has hampered intervention design and progress. In contrast, depression offers a more rigorously defined and measurable construct for tracking distress and evaluating reforms. The article reviews data from residents and practicing physicians, highlighting long work hours, administrative burden, and organizational culture as primary drivers of poor well-being. It presents a public health framework emphasizing system-level interventions like workload reduction, EHR support, and improved access to mental health care alongside individual-level strategies such as mindfulness and therapy. Special attention is given to the unique challenges faced by women and underrepresented minorities in medicine. The article concludes that while burnout raised awareness, future progress depends on standardized measures, longitudinal tracking, and investment in systemic, equity-centered reforms.