I’m Dr. Nishant Patel, a urologist by training, but more importantly, someone who has faced many of the same struggles physicians go through - depression, burnout, substance use, and suicidal thoughts. During medical school, I battled alcoholism, only getting help after a DUI. I then spent a decade sober, but when both my children had significant health issues, I spiraled into depression and experienced suicidal thoughts. I was confined to my bed with darkness enshrouding me and only wanted to end the pain. Mine is not a story of individual perseverance. I had hundreds of people helping me and guiding me through the way. They loved me when I could not love myself. I endured multiple inpatient stays and, in part, found my way through by stepping back from academic medicine and pursuing private practice part-time. I’m also currently pursuing an MBA to help spread the critical mission of SafeHavenMD. I finally got the help I needed and am doing so well. I just want to give back to other physicians.

My passion has always been helping others, and I’ve been fortunate to experience moments of grace and compassion by various healthcare systems. However, I’ve also faced isolation, discrimination, and job loss because of my history of substance use and depression. I’m committed to ensuring no other physician has to suffer the same fate simply for seeking help. At SafeHavenMD, I want to fight for physicians to get the support they need without fearing for their careers. We do this with the utmost confidentiality and anonymity, if you prefer. Asking for help shouldn’t come with the risk of losing everything. My goal is simple: to see every physician succeed in both their personal and professional lives. I send my love, light, and hope to you and your loved ones on this journey. You WILL get through this.