title: The impaired physician: some coping mechanisms.
abstract: Doctoring is a stressful way of life. Both normal and neurotic needs can increase the complexity of the family physician's life. Certain vulnerable doctors seek easement in tranquilizers, sedatives or alcohol, and can become addicted. Impairment may be episodic or steady, leading to deterioration in personality and abilityUsually such individuals should, after withdrawing from the addicting substance, leave family practice.To cope with stress, the doctor should organize his work, his appetites for goods and money, his relationships with patients, peers and family. If he finds himself in serious personality difficulties, he should seek professional help.
authors.forename: J F
authors.initials: JF
authors.lastname: Nicholson