Dysphoria and impaired mentation in young physicians.

A syndrome of dysphoria and impaired mentation afflicting young physicians is described. Complaints involve a perceived inability to remember recently read medical literature and a perceived lack of ability and "memory lapses" in the clinical care of patients. This syndrome occurs at a time when the young physicians' professional role is in transition and when he has just assumed increased clinical responsibilities. Resolution of the syndrome may be facilitated by a suggested protocol.