2 answers
Hailey
Student
Palmer, Alaska
3
Questions
Updated
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What do the work hours look like? How do you maintain work and family time?
I'm a high school student looking into becoming a psychiatrist, but I am looking forward to starting a family in my mid 20's. What do the work hours look like? Would I be spending a lot of time at work, or is it pretty well distributed? If you are a psychiatrist with a family at home, how do you manage your time?
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2 answers
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1590
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Overall Hailey, becoming a psychiatrist will take about 12 years, between earning a Bachelor's Degree, Medical Degree along with your psychiatric residency. Of course, the amount of time can vary depending on your individual circumstances, like how many years you take to complete medical school or if you choose to start a family.
Choosing a career as a psychiatrist can bring immense fulfillment and satisfaction. As a psychiatrist, you have the opportunity to positively impact the lives of your patients by assisting them in overcoming mental health challenges and attaining better overall well-being. Witnessing the progress and growth of your patients over time can be incredibly rewarding and personally fulfilling. Plus, the sense of purpose that comes from helping others and advocating for mental health adds to the gratification of this profession. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that being a psychiatrist, like any profession, comes with its own set of challenges that demand dedication, empathy, and a commitment to continuous learning.
Achieving a work-life balance can be challenging for psychiatrists, particularly during residency and early in their careers. The demanding workload and irregular hours may limit personal time and self-care. Despite the challenges, many psychiatrists find great fulfillment in their careers, so, it will be some give and take. Set achievable goals by implementing time-management strategies, analyzing your to-do list and cutting out tasks that have little value.
Pay attention to when your most productive work time is, and block that time off for your most important work-related activities. Avoid checking your emails and phone every few minutes, as those are major time-wasting tasks that derail your attention and productivity. Structuring your day can increase productivity at work, which can result in more free time to relax with family.
Achieving a healthy work-life balance is essential for overall well-being and productivity, and maintaining this balance is particularly important in today’s ever-connected world, where work demands and personal commitments can easily become overwhelming.
Choosing a career as a psychiatrist can bring immense fulfillment and satisfaction. As a psychiatrist, you have the opportunity to positively impact the lives of your patients by assisting them in overcoming mental health challenges and attaining better overall well-being. Witnessing the progress and growth of your patients over time can be incredibly rewarding and personally fulfilling. Plus, the sense of purpose that comes from helping others and advocating for mental health adds to the gratification of this profession. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that being a psychiatrist, like any profession, comes with its own set of challenges that demand dedication, empathy, and a commitment to continuous learning.
Achieving a work-life balance can be challenging for psychiatrists, particularly during residency and early in their careers. The demanding workload and irregular hours may limit personal time and self-care. Despite the challenges, many psychiatrists find great fulfillment in their careers, so, it will be some give and take. Set achievable goals by implementing time-management strategies, analyzing your to-do list and cutting out tasks that have little value.
Pay attention to when your most productive work time is, and block that time off for your most important work-related activities. Avoid checking your emails and phone every few minutes, as those are major time-wasting tasks that derail your attention and productivity. Structuring your day can increase productivity at work, which can result in more free time to relax with family.
Achieving a healthy work-life balance is essential for overall well-being and productivity, and maintaining this balance is particularly important in today’s ever-connected world, where work demands and personal commitments can easily become overwhelming.
Thank you, Doc for the advice.
Hailey
Thank You Alycia. Volunteerism is the voice of the people put into action.
Doc Frick
Dr. Deniece
Physician
4
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Dr.’s Answer
Hi Hailey! Psychiatry is a wonderful profession and in very high demand right now. I'm sure you know the long, grueling path to get into medicine, but once there, Psychiatry can be one of the more fulfilling careers! Actually, Psychiatrist enjoy some of the best quality of life, depending on the setting in which you want to work. Outpatient psychiatrists typically work a 9-5 schedule with no weekends or holidays. Many are in private practice so they can choose their own hours. Another option is working in the Hospital. There is a Psychiatry specialty called Consult-Liaisons, these Psychiatrists sometimes also train in Internal Medicine and they consult for the Internist on medical issues related to psychiatric issues. They typically work in a hospital based setting. There are also Psychiatric Institutes and countless other avenues for psychiatrists to practice in. If you have a passion for Psychiatry I am sure that you will able to succeed at it and build a wonderful life!
Thank you for sharing your perspective.
Hailey