Depression in Medical School

Following a systematic review and meta-analysis, around 27 percent of medical students around the world report depression or depressive symptoms. This is much higher than the 19 percent of adults in the UK who also suffer from depression.

The reason for this could be intense pressures, high work loads and long hours of teaching. One thing is certain: medical students must be supported in these feelings.

No one needs to or should struggle alone.

Having depression or depressive feelings in medical school can make an already challenging subject that much harder, and may make you lose your interest or passion for the subject. It can compromise your patient’s and your own safety. This is why it’s really important to talk to someone about how you’re feeling.

There may be a notion that medical professionals don’t struggle or shouldn’t struggle with their mental health, but this isn’t true.

Medical professionals are ordinary people in an extraordinary position of responsibility and struggle just like anybody else.

There is a host of support available to you if you’re feeling down, and a number of these resources can be found under our Mental Health Spotlight post ‘Resources for Depression and Suicide’. These resources are there to help you without judgment. Having depression and seeking help will not affect your fitness to practice unless you are putting yourself or your patients at risk.

Depression can make you feel extremely isolated, but you are not alone. You are not alone in your struggle and you are never alone in seeking help.

For more information on depression and suicide, visit our website to see our Mental Health Spotlight on the topic and to find resources if you are in need of support.

By Aisia Lea.