Ayla Ahmed (The Medic Version)

Dealing with Burnout as a Medical Student

Burnout is defined as "a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress". In the naturally rapid-paced, competitive, and demanding environment that exists in post-secondary intuitions, the issue of academic burnout is prevalent among students—and staff—alike. With Medical School being notorious for having the same defining characteristics intensified and enhanced, it comes to no surprise to anyone that Medical Students have some of the highest rates of burn-out among all University Majors. As the majority of Medics face unrealistic and unattainable expectations coupled with the overwhelming stigma that doctors must be perfect, it is not uncommon for this burn-out to drive young students away from the profession all together. While recovering from the state of exhaustion is essential in moving forward, as our opportunities to rest and recuperate begin to dwindle from the lack of time, it is imperative that we spare no effort in preventing the condition all together. In this essay, we will explore the necessary means required to convalesce burn-out while in the current state. Additionally, we will address what can be done to prolong the occurrence of the next relapse or —possibly—prevent the event all together.