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Pump the brakes on your week and take 10 minutes to make your life as a surgeon just a little better…

Jeff welcomes to the podcast, hip & knee arthroplasty surgeon, Dr. Peter Gold.

Out of all surgical subspecialties, orthopedic surgeons have the highest rate of suicide. Rates of burnout and depression are similarly bad among orthopedic surgeons. Too often, we get caught up in these numbers and can’t see the forest for the trees.

The qualities required to become a great surgeon set us up for both success and failure. In general, we have stressful jobs; we’re perfectionists; and we have bad self-care habits. Additionally, we like quick fixes. But taking care of yourself is not a quick fix.

What steps does Peter suggest we do to practice better self-care as surgeons?

• Step 1 - Forget the numbers. It’s easy to get wrapped up in statistics surrounding burnout, depression, and suicide. We need to look past these numbers and accept that these issues impact surgeons.
• Step 2 - Recognize the effects. Once you accept the fact that burnout and depression are prevalent in our profession, the next step is to start recognizing their effects. Start to notice when these things impact you and how.
• Step 3 - Return to your source of joy. Think about the things that bring you joy in life. Maybe you love playing golf or cooking food for your family. Whatever your source of joy, return to it when you’re feeling stressed out.

Most importantly, PRACTICE self care for improved well-being!

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PRACTICE Your Best!