Study: Stressed out docs can make mistakes

September 22, 2009 A study in the Journal of the American Medical Association finds up to 60 percent of physicians experience fatigue and depression. According to the report, this burnout may lead doctors to make more medical errors.

Another study looked at ways to address the mental fatigue.

Physicians who went through an eight-week program focused on relaxation and mindful communication reported improvements in their feelings of well-being.

The study highlights why doctors need to treat their own physical and mental well being so they can properly address their patients' needs.