Moral Distress Syndrome Affecting Physicians: How Current Healthcare is Putting Doctors and Patients at Risk

The rise
Physicians are experiencing moral distress syndrome, which is similar to moral injury, and is caused by the rise of suicide and burnout. This book introduces the concept of moral distress syndrome, which includes depression, PTSD, risk of suicide, divorce, emotional detachment, and the inability to build healthy relationships and empathy. It is designed around physicians talking to other physicians about their moral distresses in a safe space, with a format familiar to the physician. The book is divided into three parts: research, data, and real-life experiences of physicians. In the second part, we embellish on real-life experiences of physicians to highlight the pain and depth of the moral distress they feel. In the third part, we focus on society
Physicians are experiencing moral distress syndrome, which is similar to moral injury, and is caused by the rise
rise of suicide and burnout. This book introduces the concept of moral distress syndrome, which includes depression, PTSD, risk of suicide, divorce, emotional detachment, and the inability to build healthy relationships and empathy. It is designed around physicians talking to other physicians about their moral distresses in a safe space, with a format familiar to the physician. The book is divided into three parts: research, data, and real-life experiences of physicians. In the second part, we embellish on real-life experiences of physicians to highlight the pain and depth of the moral distress they feel. In the third part, we focus on society
Physicians are experiencing moral distress syndrome.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 206 pages
Publication date: 25 September 2020
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The prevalence of suicide and burnout among physicians has emerged as a significant concern within the healthcare sector, surpassing the previously perceived impact solely on soldiers. This phenomenon has given rise to a novel disease known as moral distress syndrome, which encompasses a range of symptoms, including depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), suicidal ideation, divorce, emotional detachment, and difficulties in forming healthy relationships and empathy. While veterans have access to specialized healthcare facilities dedicated to their needs, physicians face unique challenges in seeking treatment and support without fear of jeopardizing their licenses, hospital privileges, and employment. Consequently, they are often left to navigate these issues alone, relying on the support of their families or close friends.

Recognizing the urgent need to address moral distress, we have authored this book with the primary objective of raising awareness about the challenges faced by physicians. Structured in a format reminiscent of grand rounds, where physicians engage in open discussions about their moral distresses in a safe and confidential environment, this book aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the moral distress syndrome.

The book is divided into three parts. The first part serves as an introduction, presenting research, data, and a preliminary overview of the various issues associated with moral distress, including moral distress syndrome, PTSD, burnout, suicide rates, emotional detachment, legal distress syndrome, physicians leaving medicine, and the feeling of being trapped in a repetitive and unfulfilling routine.

In the second part, we delve into real-life experiences of physicians, sharing poignant stories that highlight the profound pain and depth of the moral distress they endure. These narratives encompass the personal lives of the characters, encompassing their family, relationships, and professional challenges. Through these narratives, we aim to shed light on the emotional toll that moral distress can have on physicians and the urgent need for support and intervention.

By presenting the information in a format familiar to physicians, we hope to foster a sense of camaraderie and understanding among healthcare professionals. We encourage readers to actively engage with the material, asking questions and sharing their own experiences as the book progresses. Through this collaborative approach, we aim to create a space where physicians can openly discuss their moral distress, seek support, and collaborate in finding solutions to address this pressing issue.

In conclusion, the rise of suicide and burnout among physicians has necessitated the recognition of moral distress syndrome as a significant healthcare concern. This book serves as a valuable resource for raising awareness, promoting dialogue, and providing support for physicians who are experiencing moral distress. By fostering a safe and supportive environment, we can work towards addressing this pervasive problem and improving the well-being of healthcare professionals.

Weight: 352g
Dimension: 156 x 234 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367471538