The Soul of Pediatric Neurosurgery: Wellness as a Path to Purpose

We often identify our vocation with a calling. Pediatric neurosurgeons are vulnerable to burnout and moral injury given the high emotional stakes, relentless pursuit of precision, and the enduring demands of patient care. Physician wellness is a prerequisite for safe, high-quality care and professional longevity. This article highlights physician wellness as a critical issue in pediatric neurosurgery, explores the public health crisis of physician suicide and burnout, and outlines strategies to sustain performance and resilience through relationships, purpose, and self-compassion. We make recommendations based on the belief that wellness is not optional—it is essential to fulfill our calling as healers.