The role of stress in anaesthetists' health and well-being

Stress is an inevitable part of our personal and professional lives. When poorly managed, stress will accumulate to levels that become injurious to our health and well-being. Burnout is one such consequence. However, because stress is an active process, with the proper knowledge and skills, we can learn to better manage and control its level of intensity. This paper examines the stress cycle and especially those aspects that are unique to the practice of medicine and anaesthesia. Sleep deprivation and physical fatigue are analyzed as key stressors. The role of the medical marriage and dual-career relationships are scrutinized. The importance of retaining the humanistic essence of medicine is emphasized. Stress management strategies and coping responses, including self-care and humor, are discussed.