Experiences of a F1 Doctor: Anxiety and Depression During Med School

Annonymous

F1 Doctor

I have just started my FY1 training after graduating from Nottingham medical school this year. It has been such a journey and I couldn’t have achieved it without the support of my friends and family.

I have struggled with my mental health since I was 18, experiencing both anxiety and depression throughout medical school.

At times I did not think I would be able to get through it but by opening up about my mental health I found great support that enabled me to flourish.

Now as an FY1 I look back at my time in medical school with great joy as it was one of the best experiences of my life. There were times when I cried, failed exams, burnt out and even had to repeat a year but all of this made me stronger and more equipped to deal with life working as a doctor.

If you are struggling with your mental health, please know that you are not alone as more people than you realise will be in the same boat. By talking and opening up about how you are feeling, people around you can support you. Even the simplest things like asking how your day was can be the thing that keeps you going. Never feel ashamed, nobody goes through medical school without having doubts or times where things seem impossible. Be assured that even by being in medical school you have achieved so much and help is always out there! Be kind to others and most importantly yourself. Nothing is ever as bad as it first seems.

As always, if you want to share any of your experiences at medical school with us, email us at welfarehub.nottsmed@gmail.com or fill out the form below. If you’re struggling with any other issues, have a look at our website to find some resources that may help you including our CRISIS page.