Burnout in resident doctors
रेज़िडेंट डॉक्टरों का बर्नआउट
Residents work long shifts with heavy patient loads, night duties, academic requirements and sometimes workplace violence or harassment.
Burnout, depression and substance misuse are common in this group. Doctors deserve the same care they provide.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Kuldeep Budania, MBBS, MD Psychiatry
Common symptoms
- Emotional exhaustion and dreading duty
- Feeling detached or cynical towards patients
- Irritability, poor sleep even when off duty
- Relying on sedatives, alcohol or stimulants
Causes
- Extended shifts and sleep deprivation
- High responsibility with limited control
- Workplace violence, harassment, hostel conditions
Risk factors
- Surgical and emergency specialties, first-year residency, isolation
For medical students and residents
- Protect post-duty sleep; use blackout curtains and earplugs
- Avoid self-prescribing sedatives or stimulants
- Use institutional grievance and wellness mechanisms; report harassment
- Seek confidential help outside your department if you prefer
How it is diagnosed
- Separating burnout from depression, anxiety and substance use
Classification: ICD-11 QD85Burn-out is classified in ICD-11 as an occupational phenomenon, not a medical condition.
Treatment options
- 1Counselling and stress management
- 2Treating depression, anxiety, insomnia or substance use
- 3Online sessions scheduled around duty rosters
Psychotherapy and counselling
- CBT and acceptance-based approaches
- Peer support and debriefing after critical incidents
Guidance for family
- Understand irregular schedules; plan time together around duties
- Notice withdrawal, drinking or hopelessness and encourage help
When to see a psychiatrist
- Stress, sleep or mood problems lasting more than two weeks
- Panic attacks, inability to study, or skipping classes
- Any thought of self-harm or ending life — seek help the same day (Tele-MANAS 14416, emergency 112)
Thoughts of self-harm or a medical emergency? Call Tele-MANAS 14416 (24×7, free) or 112.
Free self-assessment
A short screening in Hindi or English. Private — nothing is saved. Screening does not establish a diagnosis.
Frequently asked questions
Is it confidential if I am a doctor?
Yes. Your consultation is private and not shared with your institution.
Can I consult from my hostel or PG?
Yes, by private video at a time that suits your schedule. Students under 18 need a parent or guardian to be present, as per telemedicine guidelines.
Is it confidential?
Yes. Nothing is shared with your school, coaching institute, college or employer.
Help is available — confidential, in Hindi or English.
Private video consultation from anywhere in India with an Ajmer-based psychiatrist. Psychiatry consultation ₹500.
This page is for education and does not replace a personal consultation. Do not start or stop any medicine without a doctor's advice.