This National Physician Suicide Awareness Day, I am remembering Dr. Lorna Breen, a medical director of an emergency department at New York-Presbyterian Allen Hospital, who died by suicide last year. If you are struggling, please call 1-800-273-TALK. You are not alone.
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David Skorton
President and CEO
Association of American Medical Colleges
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Original Message:
Sent: 09-17-2021 10:45
From: Nicole Buckley
Subject: National Physician Suicide Awareness Day
Today is National Physician Suicide Awareness Day. I'm sharing a statement here from the Virginia Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, discussing the toll that current stressors are placing on their physicians. Dr. Michael Martin, chapter president and--full-disclosure--my children's pediatrician, has given me permission to share this reflection with you all: "Unfortunately pediatricians across the state are under an enormous burden and many have described conditions in pediatrics as the worst they have seen in their career. I think today should really be, 'Give a Pediatrician a hug day.'"
Sending virtual hugs to all doctors today.
Learn more about how members of the medical community are working to break down stigma, increase awareness, open the conversation, decrease the fear of consequences, reach out to colleagues, and recognize warning signs of depression and suicide. Find resources about National Physician Suicide Awareness Day here.
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Nicole Buckley
Communications Strategist
Association of American Medical Colleges
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