BONE TO PICK |
SURGEONS are often seen as symbols of precision, intelligence, and composure under pressure. They save lives, correct debilitating conditions, and work tirelessly in some of the most demanding environments imaginable. While the work of surgeons is revered and even romanticised, the challenges they face, especially around work-life balance and chronic stress, are rarely fully acknowledged.
Beneath the surface of clinical excellence lies a reality marked by emotional fatigue, physical strain, and, in some cases, severe mental health consequences.
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Physical health risks: Sleep Deprivation: Chronic lack of sleep affects memory, cognitive performance, and immune function. Musculoskeletal Strain: Long hours spent standing in the operating room in awkward positions often lead to chronic back, neck, and shoulder problems. Cardiovascular Risk: Prolonged stress and poor lifestyle habits, such as irregular meals, lack of exercise, and high caffeine intake, can increase the risk of hypertension and heart disease. |
surgeons process the emotional weight of their work. Time Management: Using time efficiently during non-clinical hours to rest, exercise, or engage in leisure activities helps recharge energy levels. Team Collaboration: Delegating tasks and relying on support staff can help reduce personal workload. Mentorship and Peer Support: Peer support networks can serve as a valuable space for shared experiences and emotional validation. |
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S URGICAL CAREER |
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Dr Jonas Fernandez is an Orthopaedic Surgeon at Putrajaya Hospital. He is also a member of the Malaysian Arthroscopy Society( MAS). |
Surgery is not a 9-to-5 profession. Surgeons often face long, unpredictable hours, overnight shifts, and emergency calls that disrupt personal plans and sleep schedules. In high-intensity fields like trauma, neurosurgery, or cardiovascular surgery, the stakes are higher and the hours even more gruelling.
Training alone is a marathon. This training period spans years, with constant evaluations, high-stakes exams, and the pressure to perform well while learning complex procedures.
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EMOTIONAL AND PHYSICAL HEALTH
The nature of surgical work- meticulous, high-risk, and emotionally charged- can take a serious toll on both the mind and body. Studies have consistently shown that surgeons report higher-thanaverage levels of burnout, depression, and even suicidal ideation compared to the general population. Emotional health risks: Burnout: A combination of emotional exhaustion, depersonalisation, and a reduced sense of accomplishment is common among surgeons. Isolation: The demanding nature of their work can lead to missing out on family events, losing touch with friends, and having limited time for personal hobbies or rest. Depression and Anxiety: Prolonged exposure to stress and a lack of coping mechanisms can lead to clinical depression and anxiety disorders.
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WORK-LIFE BALANCE
Achieving a healthy work-life balance is particularly challenging for surgeons. Many feel obligated to prioritise patient care and professional obligations over personal needs. The culture of medicine- especially in surgical specialities- often reinforces the idea that personal sacrifice is a badge of honour. Without adequate rest and personal time, performance inevitably suffers.
COPING AND SUPPORT
The good news is that growing awareness about physician wellness is prompting a cultural shift. Here are several ways surgeons can better manage stress and maintain their emotional and physical well-being: Setting Boundaries: Saying“ no” to non-essential commitments, taking scheduled days off, and protecting vacation time are crucial. Mental Health Support: Accessing confidential counselling, peer support groups, or therapy can help
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SYSTEMIC CHANGE
While individual strategies are essential, real change requires systemic action. Medical institutions must acknowledge the human cost of surgical careers and take active steps to support their workforce.
This includes fair scheduling practices, mental health resources, a non-punitive environment for discussing stress and errors, and leadership that models work-life balance.
The struggles of surgeons should not be hidden behind the curtain of professional perfection. These individuals dedicate their lives to healing others, and it is society’ s responsibility- patients, peers, and policymakers alike- to ensure they are cared for in return.
Emotional resilience and physical endurance should not come at the cost of a surgeon’ s well-being. When surgeons are healthy, supported, and balanced, everyone benefits- including the patients whose lives they work so hard to save.- The HEALTH
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