This Is Going to Hurt

Who it's for

Adam's gallows humor and fourth-wall-breaking asides give viewers the inside voice of a doctor coping by joking, which can feel deeply validating for healthcare and other high-stress workers.

Feelings it meets

• Burnout
• Work–Family Conflict
• Moral Injury
• Grief
• Stress
• Emotional Suppression

What it is

This Is Going to Hurt is a 2022 BBC One comedy-drama (AMC+ in the US) written and created by Adam Kay from his memoir, running seven episodes. Set in 2006 on an NHS obstetrics and gynaecology ward in London, it follows junior doctor Adam (Ben Whishaw) through professional pressures and his relationship with his boyfriend Harry.

Where to find it

BBC One (UK); AMC+ in the US. Streaming availability rotates; check JustWatch.

Before you start

Heads up: A colleague's suicide and stillbirth.

Age: TV-MA (suggested 16+)

Rest belongs to the work as the eyelids to the eyes.Rabindranath Tagore, Stray Birds, no. 24