A Well Doctor's Family: The Struggle for Intimacy

For married people, mental health depends on a sound marriage and family life. Intimacy is a major requirement for a healthy marriage. One of the biggest problems among physicians is failure to develop intimate relationships within their families. Intimacy may be inhibited because the characteristics of a good physician are not always characteristics of a good spouse and parent. For example, a physician should be able to control feelings, while a spouse and parent should be able to express feelings. Also, the pressure of practice may mean physicians do not spend enough time with their families. Or, confronted by tensions at home, doctors may retreat into their work, where they feel competent and appreciated. However, physicians must realize that self-esteem and intimacy through family relationships are just as important as professional esteem.