The Stigma of Mental Health

OVERVIEW:

Physicians are committed to the well-being of their patients. But who is taking care of their well-being? Dr. Foti will share his personal experiences and patient stories as an intern when COVID-19 first arrived in the US in 2020, the loss of his mother during that time, and his later struggles with anxiety and depression after becoming an attending. Dr. Foti speaks about the development of his anxiety and depression, how it manifested, and how he eventually sought the help he so desperately needed. Understanding that physicians cannot be healers if they do not first heal themselves, there is no health without mental health. It is not a weakness, and it is by far the strongest thing you can do to get the help that you need. Dr. Foti shares his story because he suffered in silence, and he doesn’t want even a single person to do the same.

Speaker: Michael Foti, DO

OBJECTIVES:

 Describe the root causes of the stigma of mental health within the medical community

 Outline changes that are needed at the individual and system level

 Implement effective strategies to prevent the development of burnout

 Get help when they need it

Expiration Date: December 31, 2026

The AOIA designates this activity for a maximum of 1.0 AOA Category 1-A Credit. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.