Monday Mar 10, 2025

Overcoming Physician Burnout & Addiction with Dr. Brett Cordes

In this eye-opening episode of Healing Horizons, host Saima sits down with Dr. Brett Cordes, a recently retired ENT physician and surgeon, who courageously shares his journey through addiction, recovery, and redemption. Once on the brink of losing everything, Dr. Cordes now advocates for mental health awareness and burnout prevention among physicians. He sheds light on the hidden crisis of addiction in the medical profession, the warning signs of burnout, and why so many doctors hesitate to seek help. If you or someone you know is struggling with burnout or addiction, this episode is a must-listen.

About the Guest: Dr. Brett Cordes

Dr. Brett Cordes is a former ENT physician and surgeon who battled addiction while managing the high demands of a medical career. After years of struggling in silence, he sought recovery and is now dedicated to helping other professionals navigate burnout, substance abuse, and mental health challenges. His mission is to change the stigma surrounding physician mental health and advocate for better support systems in the healthcare industry.

Key Takeaways

Burnout is widespread in medicine – Over 50% of doctors experience burnout, with even higher rates among female physicians.
Early warning signs include mood swings, irritability, emotional exhaustion, and reliance on external validation.
Addiction often starts as a coping mechanism for stress and anxiety, gradually escalating into a daily struggle.
Barriers to seeking help include stigma, fear of professional repercussions, and the misconception that doctors should "fix themselves."
Recovery is possible – Recognizing the problem, seeking professional help, and finding supportive communities like 12-step programs can lead to healing and renewed purpose.

Connect with Dr. Brett Cordes

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