Every year on July 1st, India observes National Doctors’ Day to honour the selfless service, dedication, and contributions of medical professionals across the country. The celebration is not just a token of appreciation but a reminder of the critical role doctors play in our lives.

In 2025, the theme of National Doctors’ Day is “Behind the Mask: Who Heals the Healers”. This theme takes a thoughtful turn, focusing on an often overlooked aspect of healthcare — the mental and emotional well-being of doctors themselves.

What Is the Theme of National Doctors’ Day 2025?

The official theme for Doctors’ Day 2025 is “Behind the Mask: Who Heals the Healers”.

This year’s message is not just symbolic — it raises an urgent concern about the psychological pressure and emotional burnout that doctors frequently endure, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. While doctors are hailed as frontline heroes, few pause to ask how these healers manage their own stress, anxiety, or emotional fatigue.

Key Message of the Theme:

• Recognizing the mental health challenges faced by doctors

• Encouraging empathy and support systems for medical professionals

• Promoting open discussions around doctors’ emotional well-being

• Highlighting the need for systemic changes in healthcare work environments

This is a timely theme, as healthcare workers globally continue to face long shifts, emotional strain, and in many cases, a lack of support or acknowledgment of their own well-being.

Why Is National Doctors’ Day Celebrated on July 1st in India?

National Doctors’ Day in India is observed on July 1st every year to commemorate the birth and death anniversary of Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy, one of the most celebrated physicians and freedom fighters in Indian history.

Who Was Dr. B.C. Roy?

Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy was a renowned physician, academic, and the second Chief Minister of West Bengal. Born on 1st July 1882, and coincidentally passing away on the same date in 1962, Dr. Roy’s life is a symbol of excellence in medicine, politics, and public service.

He played a key role in building medical institutions in India and was instrumental in establishing the Indian Medical Association (IMA) and the Medical Council of India (MCI). In 1961, he was honoured with the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award.

How is National Doctors’ Day Celebrated in India?

Doctors’ Day in India is observed with various events and initiatives by hospitals, medical colleges, and healthcare organizations. Some common ways of celebration include:

• Felicitation programs for senior and frontline doctors

• Free health camps and awareness drives

• Mental health workshops and counselling sessions

• Tributes to Dr. B.C. Roy and other legendary doctors

• Public messages of gratitude through media and social platforms

In recent years, many institutions have used this day to open up conversations about workplace burnout, emotional well-being, and mental health challenges in the medical profession — aligning perfectly with this year’s theme.

Why Mental Health of Doctors Matters More Than Ever

Doctors are often seen as pillars of strength, expected to maintain composure and make life-altering decisions under immense pressure. However, beneath the mask — both literal and metaphorical — lies a human being who is equally vulnerable to stress, trauma, anxiety, and emotional exhaustion.

Challenges Doctors Commonly Face:

• Long, irregular working hours

• High-stakes decision-making

• Constant exposure to suffering and death

• Fear of medical errors or litigation

• Lack of personal time and rest

• Inadequate mental health support

According to various surveys, a significant percentage of doctors report symptoms of burnout, depression, or work-induced anxiety. The stigma around mental health in the medical community also prevents many from seeking help.

By asking “Who heals the healers?”, this year’s Doctors’ Day theme aims to break the silence and build a more empathetic, sustainable healthcare environment.

Doctors’ Day in Other Countries

Interestingly, Doctors’ Day is celebrated on different dates around the world, depending on local historical or medical milestones:

• United States: March 30

• Brazil: October 18

• Iran: August 23

• Vietnam: February 27

India’s observance on July 1 remains unique due to its connection with Dr. B.C. Roy and the broader message of service and sacrifice.

How Can We Support Doctors Beyond Doctors’ Day?

While Doctors’ Day is a great opportunity to show appreciation, real change requires year-round efforts to support healthcare workers. Here’s what individuals, institutions, and governments can do:

For Individuals:

• Respect appointment timings and show patience

• Avoid unnecessary panic or aggression during treatment

• Acknowledge doctors’ emotional labour

• Share public messages of support and gratitude

For Institutions:

• Provide access to mental health counselling

• Implement rotational shifts and rest periods

• Create non-punitive environments for error reporting

• Organize regular workshops on stress management

For Policymakers:

• Invest in public healthcare infrastructure

• Address doctor-patient ratio gaps

• Include mental wellness in medical training curriculum

• Ensure legal protection for medical professionals