Book Advises Doctors on How to Cope Better

Although doctors have always put in long hours at the office, they could count on significant income and a good deal of professional respect. But today, many are struggling with the stresses of managed care, higher patient loads, reduced income and a more competitive workplace.

Now comes a book that may help. “The Resilient Physician: Effective Emotional Management for Doctors and Their Medical Organizations,” newly released by the American Medical Assn., offers tips to help doctors cope better, get more in touch with their emotions and, perhaps, become nicer people. Chapters include “Develop Philosophies That Keep You Humble and Self-Observing,” and “Be Generous and Be Gracious.”

For $30, AMA members can pick up these tips along with strategies for handling work addiction, anger and conflict management. The authors, Wayne and Mary Sotile, have co-written six books, including “The Medical Marriage: Sustaining Healthy Relationships for Physicians and Their Families,” another in the association’s list of books on the personal side of the profession.