The mental health of healthcare professionals has become a critical focus worldwide, with growing evidence highlighting the unique challenges faced by doctors in developing countries. In India, this concern is shaped by disparities in healthcare infrastructure between urban and rural regions, heavy workloads, and strong societal expectations placed on physicians. Unlike in Western settings, cultural norms, hierarchical work environments, and gender-specific pressures, such as balancing professional duties with family responsibilities, make it even harder for doctors to openly address their mental health struggles.

Research consistently shows that doctors face a higher risk of depression, anxiety, and burnout compared to the general population, and in India, the problem is magnified. These challenges not only jeopardize physicians well-being but also directly affect clinical judgment,…