The Case Is Over, But I'm Not Okay: Breaking the Silence on Litigation Stress in Medicine

Facing litigation after a challenging case can leave a lasting emotional and psychological impact on physicians. The stress of legal proceedings often compounds the trauma of the clinical event itself, leading to anxiety, self-doubt, isolation, and diminished professional confidence. For physicians in academic emergency medicine, these experiences can be especially difficult to navigate in an environment that values decisiveness, resilience, and constant performance.

This #StopTheStigmaEM conversation will bring together leaders and learners who have experienced or supported colleagues through litigation stress to normalize these reactions, share strategies for recovery, and address the culture of silence that often surrounds these events. Through open dialogue and reflection, participants will learn to identify the signs of litigation-related distress, communicate effectively with support networks, and develop a personal recovery plan that fosters both professional growth and psychological well-being.

By the end of this webinar, engaged participants will be able to:

1. Identify the common emotional and behavioral responses physicians may experience after a challenging clinical case and throughout the litigation process.
2. Analyze the impact of litigation stress on mental health, clinical performance, and professional relationships.
3. Develop a personalized strategy for recovery by integrating proven coping techniques and peer-supported resources.