How Can Medical Students Look After Themselves?

Abstract

Abstract ‘How can medical students look after themselves’ outlines how medical students can improve their own wellbeing, whilst acknowledging the significant challenges they face due to systemic and cultural influences. This chapter considers what we mean by wellbeing, and the need to look beyond the traditional view of wellbeing as an absence of mental distress. Four different domains are discussed—mental, physical, social, and integrated wellbeing. Ways to enhance wellbeing are considered, these include creating spaces for the sharing of difficult experiences, mindfulness, practising gratitude, exercise, healthy eating, good sleep hygiene, and connecting with others. Potential sources of support are highlighted, including university support services, psychological support, peer support, and social networks. The factors that contribute to student reluctance to ask for help and use the services available to them are also discussed.