Physician Support Line (PSL) is a peer-to-peer support line for physicians by physicians. The line is open to US based DO/MD/international equivalents at the attending, fellow, resident, intern, medical student, or research level. You do not have to be currently practicing medicine to speak to our volunteers.

Is Physician Support Line a political organization?

No. We are an apolitical organization and strongly believe that physician mental health is an issue that reaches across the aisle.

Who are the volunteers staffing Physician Support Line?

We are U.S. licensed psychiatrists who have completed our post graduate medical training.

Do I have to pay for services?

No. This is a free service staffed by volunteers.

Is the call confidential?

Yes. Our support and conversations are confidential. No identifying information is recorded, no phone numbers are stored, and volunteers have signed a confidentiality contract stating they will not discuss calls with anyone except the admin team, should there be a concern about imminent harm to self or others.

Do I have to report this to my medical board?

No. You are not establishing a doctor-patient relationship, thus this is not reportable as receiving therapy services.

Do I need an appointment?

No. We have psychiatrists on call from 8am to 1am ET, 7 days a week. You can call the line anytime during our hours of operation and speak with a psychiatrist immediately. We aim to make the support line available to you when you need it.

Why is this only for physicians?

Our service aims to be a unique safe space for physicians to work through stressors with a peer psychiatrist colleague who has the shared experience of medical school, post-graduate training, examinations, and the American healthcare system. Peer-to-peer support is shown to be particularly effective in other communities with shared experiences such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Veteran support groups and hotlines. Physicians also face specific types of social, cultural, and professional stigma in engaging in mental health care, and we are trying to focus on normalizing their wellness.

Front line healthcare workers and first responders may find a similar service by calling:

1-800-327-7451 (TTY 711)

I feel guilty calling. I don't want to take up others' time.

We have over 800 volunteer psychiatrists that all want to help. We are here for you, and want to provide support. Please do call us.

Does the call have to be about navigating the Covid-19 pandemic?

No. Callers can discuss whatever subject they would like that is immediately concerning to them. Calls do not need to be related to the Covid19 pandemic.

What if I am suicidal?

If you are having thoughts of wanting to end your life, please first call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255 or call 911 if in imminent danger.

If you call PSL and are suicidal, we will ask for your current address in case we need to provide you with on-the-ground assistance.

What if I am having a medical emergency?

Please dial 911.

What kind of support is offered?

We offer empathic and active listening, motivational interviewing, supportive therapy, collaborative problem solving, and cognitive behavioral techniques to manage acute stress, panic, depression, and insomnia. We also can help you start processing stressors including but not limited to the Covid-19 pandemic, existing mental health disorders, substance use disorders, family dynamics, childhood or current trauma, grief and loss, and chronic illness. This service is for peer support and not formal treatment.

Do you prescribe medications?

No. We do not prescribe medications or recommend supplements or OTC medications.

I had a great talk on the support line and want to continue seeing the volunteer psychiatrist I spoke to. What do I do?

We do not provide an ongoing doctor-patient relationship through PSL or solicit callers. If you want to pursue a formal doctor-patient relationship, you will need to independently work out the logistics of setting up an appointment at the psychiatrist’s practice.

I am a family member/friend of a physician and want to know how to support them better. Can I call PSL?

Yes. We know it often takes a village to help someone. We would be happy to assist you.

Does PSL have any affiliations?

No. We are a grassroots organization that was formed by and is staffed by volunteer psychiatrists. We are not affiliated with any commercial entity.

Does PSL serve a particular geographical area?

We are a national support line serving the United States of America, including Puerto Rico.

Is there a time limit on how long I can speak with a volunteer psychiatrist?

No. You will not be cut off due to time limitations, but we do encourage you to have a particular topic/stressor you want to focus the discussion and intervention on for the most beneficial experience. You are welcome to call throughout the day if needed.

How do I access Physician Support Line?

Using any phone, just call our toll free number 1-888-409-0141. You will hear a welcome message with number prompts to direct you to speak with a volunteer psychiatrist.

What if I have additional questions that are not addressed here?

Please contact admin@physiciansupportline.com