Clinician well-being

Protect Patients & Peers

Protect Patients & Peers

Well-being is not only personal. Leaders protect teams through how they communicate. Clinicians protect patients by recognizing mental health needs early — and by responding when colleagues face bullying, bias, or harassment.

Four Trust Pillars for Team Communication

  • Caring and Empathy
    Acknowledge worry and let others voice concern before delivering information.
  • Dedication and Commitment
    Address and confirm team needs — show you are invested in their well-being.
  • Competence and Expertise
    Share knowledge and cite trusted sources so messages carry credibility.
  • Honesty and Openness
    Be transparent about facts and feelings to maintain trust over time.

Communicating With Your Team in High-Stress Times

When people are stressed, they struggle to hear and remember information. Lead with empathy. Limit key messages to three to five. Repeat what matters most at the beginning and end.

Crisis Communication Infographic (PDF) · Responding to uncivil behavior — including the Five D’s for bystanders

Clinician supporting patient mental health

Recognize and Respond to Patient Mental Health

The NCD Academy course covers screening, intervention, and engaging specialists across six common mental health disorder categories.

When a Colleague Is Struggling

Most cardiologists who need help will not ask for it. Post the ACC well-being infographic in your break room. Know your institution’s EAP. Normalize the conversation. If a colleague is targeted by uncivil behavior, see how to respond as a witness or supporter.

Lead a Team Conversation

Use the Coaching for CV Leaders webinar series and Toolkit to support culture change in your practice.