About two-thirds of gastroenterologists reported no change in overall happiness year-over-year, according to a new report from Medscape.
The report, “Following Their Own Advice? Medscape Gastroenterologist Mental Health & Well-Being Report 2026,” published Aug. 21, surveyed 5,159 full-time physicians practicing in the U.S., and was broken down by specialty.
Here are 15 things to know from the report:
- Across happiness, work-life balance, family relationships and friendships, at least half of gastroenterologists reported no change from three years ago.
- Nine out of 10 gastroenterologists said their friendships have stayed the same or gotten worse over the past three years. Overall, 84% of physicians reported that their friendships had stayed the same or worsened.
- About 30% of gastroenterologists said they don’t give their own health enough attention. Just 24% called their health and wellness a “top priority,” and 47% said that their health is “important.”
- About three-quarters of gastroenterologists said they believe happiness and work-life balance are achievable goals, while 11% said that work-life balance is not attainable.
- Eighty-five percent of gastroenterologists said that it is possible to be a happy, well-balanced person as a practitioner in their specialty, tied for the second-highest of any specialty.
- About half of gastroenterologists reported symptoms of burnout, depression or both.
- Thirty-one percent of gastroenterologists reported having no religious or spiritual belief, up from 19% three years earlier.
- About two-thirds of gastroenterologists said they’d take a pay cut if it meant they would have better work-life balance or more free time.
- More than 40% of gastroenterologists said they do not consistently get a good night’s sleep.
- Seventy-seven percent of gastroenterologists said hobbies and outside interests are “important” or “very important” for relaxation and mental well-being, down from 89% in the last report.
- About half of gastroenterologists (48%) said they’re trying to spend less time online.
- Eighty-five percent of gastroenterologists described their marriage as “good” or “very good.”
- Eight out of 10 gastroenterologists said that vacation time is “very important” to their happiness and mental health.
- Ninety-nine percent of gastroenterologists said family and personal time is “very” or “somewhat” important, yet 84% of those with children under 21 felt their kids needed more of their time and attention.
- Nearly one-quarter of gastroenterologists said they do not drink alcohol, and about one-third have less than one drink per week. Of the gastroenterologists who do drink, 18% said that cutting back is a priority.
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