Madhya Pradesh's Resident Doctors Face Burnout and Mental Health Crisis

Resident doctors in Madhya Pradesh are facing severe challenges that threaten their well-being and patient care. Issues like extreme workloads, poor rest, and mental health strain are pushing many to consider leaving the profession. A recent survey reveals the harsh reality for medical trainees in the state. Over 87% of resident doctors report burnout and chronic sleep deprivation. Within clinical departments, these figures climb to 97% or higher.

Long hours are a major concern. About 61.8% work shifts exceeding 36 hours without a break. Nearly half, 46.7%, exceed 80 hours weekly, with 20.3% surpassing 100 hours. After such shifts, 63.7% say they do not get enough rest.

The pressure takes a heavy mental toll. One in two has thought about quitting residency because of the workload. Around 17% have even considered self-harm. Doctors cite long shifts, senior pressure, patient family behaviour, and relentless work as causes of exhaustion, which in turn affects their performance. The findings highlight widespread systemic problems in medical training. Staff shortages, low pay, lack of mental health support, and mandatory service bonds contribute to the crisis. These conditions endanger both doctors and the patients they treat.