Burnout- how to put out the fire?
In this episode of What the Health, Dr. Mike tackles the often unspoken topic of burnout in healthcare—comparing it to Fight Club, where “the first rule is you don’t talk about it.” He challenges that mindset by sharing his own personal experience with burnout back in 2015, explaining how it left him feeling hollow, overwhelmed, and considering leaving medicine altogether.
Dr. Mike highlights that burnout isn’t merely “feeling tired” or “needing a holiday.” Instead, it’s a deep, persistent state of emotional exhaustion, cynicism, and reduced performance. He points out that simple fixes like time off, yoga, or quick resilience workshops often don’t cut it. Real progress requires both individual strategies (like mindfulness, counseling, rediscovering hobbies, and limiting social media) and systemic change—improved staffing, better leadership, flexible scheduling, and fostering a supportive workplace culture.
He underscores that healthcare workers are often pushed to the brink, and organizations frequently fail to address the root causes—such as relentless rosters, understaffing, and a perceived lack of appreciation. Dr. Mike calls for honest discussions, strong leadership that values staff well-being, and a more empathetic approach to how the healthcare system is structured. Ultimately, he reminds listeners that burnout is not a personal weakness; it’s a reaction to unsustainable conditions. Acknowledging burnout, seeking help, and advocating for change are key steps in turning the tide.
Ireland