Medical school is a time of growth, challenge, and resilience, but it can also take a toll on your mental and emotional well-being.
Whether you're in the thick of pre-clinical lectures or facing the long hours of clinical rotations, it's important to remember that taking care of your mental health is not a luxury—it's a necessity. You are not alone. Many students experience burnout, anxiety, and self-doubt. Acknowledging these feelings is the first step toward healthily managing them.
In light of May being Mental Health Awareness Month, we wanted to offer some practical wellness and mental health tips to keep in mind throughout your journey:
Prioritize rest and recovery
Aim for 7–8 hours of sleep whenever possible. Your brain needs downtime to absorb what you’ve learned.
Set boundaries
Create clear study and break times. Allow yourself guilt-free rest.
Stay connected
Talk to classmates, mentors, or mental health professionals. Sharing struggles can ease the burden.
Move your body
Even a short daily walk can boost your mood and reduce stress.
Practice mindfulness
Apps like Headspace or Insight Timer offer quick meditations you can use between classes or before shifts. Don't forget the School offers Headspace to you at no charge!
Check in with yourself
Journal briefly each day or reflect on how you're really feeling—not just how you're "supposed" to feel.
Check in with the School's Department of Mental Health Services
DMHS offers free counseling and other services for students. You can reach them at 317-278-2383.
Remember, mental wellness is just as essential as academic achievement. By supporting each other and normalizing conversations around mental health, we can build a stronger, healthier medical community—together.
