Episode 3: Empathy and Experience:

The Importance of Physician Mental Health

In episode 3 of The Symptom Media Podcast: Bridging the Divide in Mental Health, host Dr. Lindi van Niekerk is joined by Dr. Christine Moutier, Chief Medical Officer of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) and Dr. Sidney Zisook, co-founder of UCSD’s HEAR program. Drawing from personal experience and decades of clinical expertise, Dr. Moutier and Dr. Zisook delve into the hidden burdens that many doctors carry, including eating disorders, anxiety, depression, and the pervasive stigma that prevents many from seeking help. Their candid discussion examines the historical and cultural challenges within the medical community that discourage vulnerability and perpetuate silence and how innovative programs like UCSD’s HEAR program, and the AFSP are breaking down those barriers and providing a path for others to follow.

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For more information about the resources shared in this episode you can visit:

• American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

Other important links from AFSP:

• https://afsp.org/suicide-prevention-interventions-and-treatments/
• https://afsp.org/healthcare-professionals-mental-health-and-suicide-risk/https://afsp.org/get-help/
• https://afsp.org/support-after-suicide-loss-for-healthcare-professionals-and-organizations/

• UCSD’S Health & Physician Wellness Infrastructure
• Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes’ Foundation

If you or anyone you know is in crisis… Call or text 988 or text TALK to 741741