While watching the antics of Dr. House on the Fox hit series makes for great TV, most would agree he’d make a miserable co-worker or spouse. He’s not real, but people married to doctors may recognize a milder form of his personality quirks in their spouses—”Doctor House Lite,” so to speak.
Many of the traits that made them successful—such as perfectionism, singular focus, a controlling nature or an over-size ego—make doctors difficult life partners and parents.
You’re not alone in thinking living with a doctor presents unique challenges. The rate of divorce among physicians has been estimated to be 10 to 20% higher than in the general population.
When there’s a doctor is the house, anniversaries and soccer games often take a back seat to patient needs. When the doctor is home, he or she is often overtired or preoccupied with events of the past or upcoming shift. The non-medical parent often does the lion’s share of the child rearing and elder care—and isn’t always appreciated for his or her efforts.
When you need help managing the unique stresses of being a member of a medical family, The Physician Wellness Resources can help.
FREE PERSONAL & FAMILY COUNSELING: YOUR WELL BEING RESOURCES
Our confidential services are provided at no cost not just to the doctor covered under Physician Well Being Resources, but to family members and life partners, as well. Our team of physician peer coaches and master’s- and doctorate-level licensed mental and behavioral health professionals are here—24 hours a day, 365 days a year—to help you:
- Relieve depression and anxiety
- Manage anger
- Cope with grief and loss
- Deal with drug and alcohol abuse
- Address addictive behaviors such as compulsive gambling, eating and shopping
- Resolve marital and relationship troubles
- Overcome legal and financial problems
- Manage interpersonal conflict at home or work
- Achieve a healthier work and life balance
- And much more
“Whatever issues you or a family member are facing, Well Being Resources can help you identify the root causes and develop effective strategies for addressing them,” says Liz Ferron, senior consultant for VITAL WorkLife.
We Can Help
Contact us either through your VITAL WorkLife App or by calling 877.731.3949. Not a member? Contact us online to learn more about how our Well Being Resources can enhance well being at your organization.
