Doctor Psychobabble

“I’m so happy ’cause today
I found my friends
They’re in my head

I’m so lonely, that’s ok
I shaved my head
And I’m not sad”

- Lyrics to “Lithium” by Nirvana

Life has been pretty good lately. No complaints. Of course, as my profession has me constantly analyzing myself and my life and my happiness, I have observed that there are a few components which seem to contribute to making me happier. I’ve stated them all a million times before, but here we go again:

1. Walking to and from work. I just can’t emphasize this enough. It is probably the single most important part of my life. Walking in boiling heat, pouring rain and frigid cold allows me to think. It makes me stronger. It provides me with wonderful photo ops. It’s simply the dog’s bark.

2. Having a job where I am busy, challenged, and needed. This is incredibly critical. I need these things in my life. They make me happy.

3. Interacting with people. I need to say hello to the man who drives the hospital shuttle bus. I need to say hello to the janitors and nurses and other ancillary staff. I need to talk to my patients. I need to teach my medical students. I need to learn from my attendings. I need to have lively debates with my fellow residents. This all makes me feel alive.

Today was a great day. It was our dedicated didactics day. Our lectures were on: supportive psychotherapy, forensic psychiatry, advanced psychopharmacology and ethics. Great topics. Great discussions. Fun learning.

Anyway, time to knock a few items off my “to do” list and have some dinner. Until next time!

Photo: “s/p Miss Piggy?” Taken on my walk to the hospital yesterday.

Part of My “Trash Talkin” Photo Series