Physician wellbeing: A Global Imperative for Sustainable Psychiatry

Chair:
Dr Andrew Molodynski, Royal College of Psychiatrists Wellbeing Champion Lead

Presenters:
Royal College of Psychiatrists Wellbeing Champions
Dr Neda Mehrpooya
Dr Leah Henen
Dr Thomas Rourke
Dr Sadiya Caunhye

Abstract:
The wellbeing of physicians across the world has emerged as an essential determinant of workforce sustainability, patient safety and the future of healthcare. Wellbeing extends beyond the absence of illness to encompass fulfilment and the ability to engage meaningfully in one’s work, as highlighted by the World Health Organization. This carries significant importance for psychiatrists, given the emotionally demanding nature of their clinical practice with exposure to trauma and systemic pressures which can heighten the risk of burnout and moral injury. Wellbeing, therefore, should be viewed as a dynamic, relational and evolving process shaped by context, culture and connection rather than a static state.

This symposium will explore psychiatrists’ wellbeing through a global perspective, reviewing evidence across continents highlighting the current burnout rates among psychiatrists at all career stages. Initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable practice and preventing burnout will also be explored. These include reflective practice groups, resilience curricula, structured mentoring schemes and national frameworks. Internationally, organisations are also increasingly recognising wellbeing as an ethical and strategic priority in healthcare governance.

In the UK, the Royal College of Psychiatrists (RCPsych) has positioned wellbeing as a core institutional value. Its Wellbeing Champions network, Workforce Wellbeing Hub, Psychiatrists’ Support Service and newly launched Thrive in Psychiatry campaign provide systemic support through advocacy, peer connection and education. The RCPsych Retention Charter further embeds wellbeing into workforce planning, encouraging NHS Trusts across the country to adopt measurable standards for supporting psychiatrists.

As RCPsych Wellbeing Champions, the presenters will share lived experience of implementing wellbeing initiatives, discuss challenges, and invite dialogue on developing collaborative international strategies. The symposium seeks to inspire global partnerships and research exploring how psychiatrists can thrive within systems so, they, in turn, can continue to care for the vulnerable.

Dr Sadiya Caunhye