By Marycon Young, Vitals contributor
Physicians are often perceived as pillars of strength, immune to mental health challenges, yet behind the white coats, many doctors like Dr. Rishi Menon face silent battles that go unnoticed by their patients and peers.
“I isolated myself, turned to food and alcohol excessively, and even contemplated suicide,” shares Dr. Menon, a cardiologist at Sutter Roseville Medical Center.
While his professional exterior remained intact, the internal pressures of personal and professional life were mounting.
“In the hospital, I’m a doctor—someone who’s supposed to be infallible. It’s exhausting.”
Dr. Rishi Menon
Other doctors share this feeling. In a new report from The Physicians Foundation, physician burnout rates remain elevated even after the COVID-19 pandemic. Too many doctors are still reluctant to focus on their mental health.
In May 2020, Dr. Menon hit a critical turning point. He made the difficult decision to enter rehab and take his last drink.
“I found a community where I could finally take off the mask, be honest, and share my true feelings,” he recalls, marking the beginning of a profound personal transformation. He hopes to continue inspiring others through his actions.
A Path to Healing
Looking back on his journey, Dr. Menon speaks candidly about the critical link between mental and physical health.
“Mental illness sounds like I’m defective. It feels like something I’ve chosen. But how can we expect cardiovascular health if there’s an overburden of unresolved mental health issues?” he says.
His conviction: mental health must be addressed for physical health to thrive.
In the four years since his recovery began, Dr. Menon has undergone significant personal growth.
“I’m not saying I’m grateful for COVID, but I am grateful for the shipwreck it caused in my life because it’s allowed me to rediscover what’s important,” he reflects.
Today, he dedicates time to meaningful connections, regularly reaching out to loved ones and engaging in conversations that matter.
Physical fitness also played a critical role in his recovery. Once self-conscious about his weight, Dr. Menon now embraces outdoor running and practices Muay Thai. His physical transformation has not only boosted his health but also deepened his relationships with patients.
“As I changed, patients began asking about my weight loss. I believe I’m a better doctor now because I can relate to my patients’ struggles on a personal level.”
Initiatives for Physician Wellness
Beyond his personal recovery, Dr. Menon is channeling his experience to support others in his profession so they are best equipped to practice medicine, conduct research and learn. At Sutter Roseville Medical Center, he leads a peer support program designed to foster community among physicians and provide a safe space for them to share their own struggles and challenges.
Dr. Menon will soon take the stage at a conference speaking on physician suicide awareness, hoping his story will resonate with others in his field.
“Patient care really begins before I even set foot in the hospital. To truly care for my patients, I need to take care of myself. I’m no superhero—and I’ve stopped pretending to be one.”
If you or someone you know may be considering suicide or is in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Sutter Health also offers comprehensive support.
