Psychiatry in the Time of COVID: Credibility, Uncertainty, and Self-Reflection

Authors: David A. Adler, MD,* Matthew D. Erlich, MD,† Beth Goldman, MD, MPH,‡ Jeffrey Berlant, MD, PhD,§|| Matthew L. Edwards, MD, Michael B. First, MD,† David W. Oslin, MD,# Samuel G. Siris, MD,** Rachel M. Talley, MD,†† Elizabeth S. Wagner, MD, MPH,‡‡ and Psychopathology Committee of the Group for Advancement of Psychiatry§§

Abstract: Public trust in the credibility of medicine and physicians has been severely tested amid the COVID-19 pan- demic and growing sociopolitical fissures in the United States. Physicians are being asked to be ambassadors to the public of scientific information. Psychiatrists have an opportunity to help the public understand and accept a “new nor- mal” during a time of such uncertainty. Using a case example, we review the impact of uncertainty and fear on scien- tific and medical credibility. Although the pandemic provides an opportunity for systemic change, the consequences of any change remain unknown. To help patients navigate the uncertainty, we conclude by offering four guidelines to cli- nicians: the public has little interest in understanding the scientific method; we need to acknowledge that we do not have all the answers; credibility and trustworthiness are linked to our ability to be trusted, believable messengers; and we can retain scientific credibility while acknowledging uncertainty.