Doctors have a tough time truly taking a break from work, even on vacation. Many are constantly on-call, checking emails, responding to messages, or reviewing patient test results—sometimes even while on holiday. This constant demand to be “on” has serious effects on their mental and physical well-being. Imagine being on vacation but spending most of the day glued to your phone or laptop, trying to catch up on work. This is the reality for many doctors. A large number of them end up working during their time off, answering patient messages or dealing with their overflowing inboxes. Medical professionals don’t get a chance to relax properly, and this can cause burnout over time. High levels of stress and constant worry about patients can affect their mood, decision-making, and even their health. So why is it so difficult for them to disconnect?
How Doctors Can Actually Unplug
Here’s how doctors are trying to take back their personal time:
- Let Go of Guilt
Doctors are encouraged to see rest as a necessity rather than a luxury. They’re learning to set boundaries, like turning off their work emails and using auto-replies when they’re not available. It might feel weird at first, but it’s essential to recharge. - Plan Breaks Wisely
Sometimes, it’s all about getting away from it all. Some doctors are finding that taking trips where they can fully disconnect, like attending meditation retreats, helps them recharge without distractions. - Work Smarter, Not Harder
Having a solid system in place at work can help. Some doctors use shared inboxes or have backup staff to ensure that if they take time off, their patients are still taken care of. This reduces the stress of returning to an overflowing workload after a break. - Daily De-Stress Routine
Doctors don’t always have to wait for a vacation to relax. Many are learning to establish a “finish line” at the end of their workday. Whether it’s through meditation, listening to music, or simply changing clothes, these little moments help them mentally step away from work.
Taking time off isn’t just about getting away from work—it’s about staying healthy, both mentally and physically. When doctors give themselves time to recharge, they can return to their patients more focused and capable of providing the best care. After all, doctors are human too, and they can’t help others if they aren’t taking care of themselves. Doctors are slowly learning that it’s okay to put down their armor, disconnect, and prioritize their health. Because when they’re fully rested, they’re better able to serve their patients and themselves.
