Psychiatrist David Kopacz works at the Veterans Affairs primary care clinic in Seattle and is an acting assistant professor of psychiatry at the University of Washington.
Nearly half of physicians report they have experienced at least one symptom of "burnout" during their career. Work hours are long, difficult and emotionally draining.
A UW survey -- one of the first in the United States to examine attitudes among mental health professionals -- suggests that increased personal and professional experience lead to more empathy toward clients.
