How do we care for ourselves while caring for others?

Surgery is a demanding profession that requires resilience, sacrifice, and the ability to navigate high-stakes decisions. However, depression, anxiety, burnout, and the emotional consequences of complications are realities that many surgeons face but often struggle to discuss openly.

In this episode of the Behind the Knife/Association of Surgeons of Great Britain and Ireland (ASGBI) collaborative series, our guests share their personal experiences navigating mental health challenges throughout their careers, confronting stigma, finding support, and learning that being a successful surgeon does not require being perfect.

Hosts

Dr. Agnes Premkumar — Behind the Knife Surgical Education Fellow, General Surgery resident (US)
Dr. Gita Lingham — President, Moynihan Academy, trainee association within the Association of Surgeons of Great Britain and Ireland (ASGBI) (UK)
Dr. Elizabeth McLennan — Vice President, Moynihan Academy, trainee association within the Association of Surgeons of Great Britain and Ireland (ASGBI) (UK)

Guests

Dr. Luke Elms — Board-certified general surgeon specializing in abdominal wall reconstruction and hernia surgery; host of The Hernia Gods podcast.
Dr. Elizabeth “Liz” Miller — Former neurosurgical trainee and current occupational health physician, mental health advocate, and author of Mood Mapping.

Resources Mentioned
Mood Mapping — Dr. Elizabeth “Liz” Miller
A practical guide to understanding and managing emotional well-being through mood awareness, self-reflection, and strategies such as exercise, music, spending time outdoors, and connecting with others.

The Hernia Gods Podcast — Dr. Luke Elms
A podcast exploring the humanity behind surgery, including imposter syndrome, complications, professional identity, self-doubt, and the shared experiences of surgeons at every career stage.
Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.

Doctors' Support Network
https://www.dsn.org.uk/. A peer-support initiative discussed by Dr. Miller, emphasizing compassion, connection, and reducing the stigma associated with mental health challenges among physicians.

How do we care for ourselves while caring for others?

Hosts

Dr. Agnes Premkumar — Behind the Knife Surgical Education Fellow, General Surgery resident (US)
Dr. Gita Lingham — President, Moynihan Academy, trainee association within the Association of Surgeons of Great Britain and Ireland (ASGBI) (UK)
Dr. Elizabeth McLennan — Vice President, Moynihan Academy, trainee association within the Association of Surgeons of Great Britain and Ireland (ASGBI) (UK)

Guests

Dr. Luke Elms — Board-certified general surgeon specializing in abdominal wall reconstruction and hernia surgery; host of The Hernia Gods podcast.
Dr. Elizabeth “Liz” Miller — Former neurosurgical trainee and current occupational health physician, mental health advocate, and author of Mood Mapping.

USA vs. UK: ASGBI Ep. 11 - Surgeons Are ...