CINCINNATI (WKRC) — The Christ Hospital Health Network has been recognized for its commitment to supporting the mental health of its employees, earning a bronze award from the American Medical Association’s Joy in Medicine Health Organization.
Dr. Christopher Paprzycki, a vascular surgeon at the hospital, has been a vocal advocate for mental health awareness among healthcare providers. Known affectionately as “Doctor P,” he has encouraged his colleagues to prioritize their mental well-being alongside their physical health.
“You know, I think it’s really easy to fight for others, you know, work your tail off, long hours, put in the extra work for others and then at the end of the day when you are laying in bed and you are wondering whether you’re worth it, you know it’s hard,” said Dr. Paprzycki, who also serves as the current president of the Academy of Medicine of Cincinnati.
To address these feelings, Dr. Paprzycki sought help from a professional mental health program available to all physicians. This program is supported by his health network and other hospitals and health systems in the area, through the Lindner Center of HOPE.
Dr. John Hawkins, the medical director of the Physicians Mental Health Program at the Lindner Center of HOPE, said, “The first thing that I’m hoping this program can help with and how it’s integrated within physician wellness programs is to break down the stigma, because it sounds like a lot of shame, right?”
Dr. Paprzycki emphasized that there should not be any shame or stigma associated with seeking mental health support. By sharing his personal journey, he hopes to encourage other medical providers to do the same.