The road to becoming a physician is long and difficult. That’s because being a physician is difficult. Building endurance, resilience, and grit during your pre-medical studies is just as important as mastering anatomy and organic chemistry. When you make the transition from hard-working undergraduate student to hard-working medical student, you’re transitioning to a higher-stress environment.
Evidence shows that medical students can struggle with their mental health – a 2020 article from the Association of American Medical Colleges notes that one of every three medical students reports symptoms of depression, while as many as one in nine report thoughts of suicide. As a pre-medical Master of Science in Medical Sciences (MSMS) student, you have the perfect opportunity to develop strategies for protecting your mental health. Here are some tips to consider as you navigate the demands of your MSMS – tips that can set you up for success in medical school and beyond.
Understand That Self-Care Isn’t a Luxury
Regardless of what Instagram or TikTok might tell you, self-care for medical students and medical professionals isn’t about treats and bubble baths. It’s about prioritizing your basic needs so you can continue to perform. Ensure you are:
- Getting enough sleep (seven to eight hours per night)
- Eating nutritious meals
- Engaging in regular physical activity
- Setting aside time for hobbies, relaxation, and socializing with friends and family
- Practicing stress management techniques, such as mindfulness, journaling, and meditation or prayer
While there will be times when you may need to grab food on the go or skip your daily walk, aim to meet basic self-care goals at least 70 to 80 per cent of the time. This will be an easier lift if you proactively manage your study schedule.
Develop Healthy Study Habits
Being busy doesn’t mean being frantically scrambling to catch up all the time. Effective study techniques and proactive planning can reduce stress, prevent burnout, and ensure you’re more likely to get to bed on time. Consider:
- Creating a structured study schedule ahead of time to avoid all-nighters and cramming (we’ve written extensively on planning your study sessions in the past)
- Using active learning methods, such as spaced repetition to improve retention of concepts
- Seeking help early if you’re struggling with concepts or coursework
Fortunately, the predictive analytics dashboard MSMS students at Tiber Health University Partners can access offers an early warning about weak points in their study – plus specific insight into which concepts are most difficult for them.
Allow yourself a certain amount of room for imperfection, too. Avoid comparing yourself to others and recognize that learning is a gradual process. Celebrate small victories and focus on progress.
Build a Strong Support System
It can be difficult for self-motivated, self-reliant pre-medical students to remember that they’re not alone on the journey toward medical school. Surround yourself with supportive peers, mentors, and family members. Establish connections with classmates who understand your struggles and can provide emotional support. Join student organizations, study groups, or wellness programs to foster a sense of community.
In addition to feeling more connected, staying in touch with a support system can help you gauge when your stress levels have become overwhelming, or when you’re showing signs of anxiety or depression. Don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help as well as for community. Seeking professional support is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Maintain Perspective and Purpose
Remind yourself why you chose this path. Keeping sight of your long-term goals and passion for medicine can provide motivation during difficult times. Finding meaning in patient interactions and remembering the impact you will have as a future physician can help sustain you.
Every stage of your medical education is demanding, but prioritizing your mental health will make you a better student and future doctor. By incorporating these strategies into your routine, you can navigate the challenges with resilience and maintain a sense of balance. Remember, taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your patients!
