With Mayo Clinic oncologist Edward T. Creagan, M.D.

From your powerful postings in our stress-related community, it is obvious that we are fellow pilgrims trying to creatively deal with some complex issues not only from a professional but also from a personal perspective.

Many studies among healthcare providers document burnout rates of approximately 50 percent to 60 percent among the population at large.

Another dimension of this issue was recently reported by the Department of Veterans Affairs. The number of Iraq and Afghanistan veterans seeking treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder jumped by nearly 20,000, almost 70 percent, in the 12 months ending June 30.

It is becoming clear that it is very difficult "to go it alone" in dealing with some difficult issues with stress, and our colleagues in Veterans Affairs are marshaling all appropriate resources to care for our veterans.

Another important message for each of us is one of self-care and to do what we can to keep us on target and focused on realistic personal and professional goals.

Please let me hear from each of you what you find to be the most powerful tactics to keep us serene and healthy in times of great turmoil and crisis.

Dr. Ed

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