Preventing End-of-Semester Burnout as a Medical Student
Burnout affects every student group and profession. Yet, research points to burnout and depression affecting more medical students than students studying for other careers. So the question is – How do you prevent burnout, especially at the end of each semester when exams and final projects are looming?
This is an important question to answer because symptoms like exhaustion, mental fog and a lack of empathy affect both you and your patients.
Understand that the Pressure is Real
First, you should recognize that the pressure you feel to perform is real. In one study, more than 50% of medical students reported burnout. Many people – students, professors, doctors, medical researchers, etc. – feel it’s a systemic issue. With difficult coursework, long hours on rotation, along with family and personal pressures, students face an uphill climb. While knowing that others are experiencing similar emotions as you doesn’t “fix” burnout, it’s important to know that you’re not alone.
This realization leads to the next suggestion for preventing or lessening the feelings of burnout.
Seek Academic Support
Don’t hesitate to reach out for academic support and reach out early – well before the semester is ending. Begin by talking with fellow classmates. Remember, it’s likely that others are experiencing the same emotions and situations as you. Feelings of isolation only increase burnout and depression so honest conversations with classmates can be beneficial.
Also, form study groups with peers to better your understanding of complex topics and make studying more enjoyable. Starting these groups early in the semester is best. Group discussions provide new perspectives and insights that you might not have considered on your own. If you’re struggling with specific subjects, consult with your professors to get guidance. Additionally, take advantage of campus resources such as tutoring services and academic and emotional support programs offered by your institution.
Prioritize Self-Care
We know this suggestion is hard for medical students. But it’s imperative to eat nutritious meals and to exercise regularly to maintain your energy levels and mood. Eating balanced meals provides the necessary nutrients to keep your brain and body functioning optimally. And regular exercise not only boosts physical health but also releases endorphins, which can improve your mood and reduce stress.
You know these facts because you teach them to your patients. But due to school pressures, you may neglect your own well-being and that neglect increases the likelihood of burnout.
Get Sleep
While sleep could fall under the “self-care” section above, it’s so critical that it deserves its own section. The lack of sleep can impair your cognitive function making it harder to concentrate, retain information and treat patients. The temptation is a powerful one – skip sleep for studying. However, research studies correlate students’ grades to the number of hours they sleep. More sleep, better grades. As a medical student, you already know the power of sleep – how it’s healing and how it resets the body. It’s crucial that you experience those same benefits for yourself.
Education Rights Group is Here to Support You
Truthfully speaking, we can’t help with burnout. We can encourage you, though, to talk with others and to take care of yourself. Intelligent, kind medical professionals are needed so stay the course.
If you have a legal question concerning a possible dismissal from school, due process or discrimination, complete this contact form or call us at 1 (800) 580-9167. We excel at education law and are here to help.