Electronic Spring 2024 | Issue 58

Mental Health while starting Medical School Rotations

By: Radhika Patel

The transition from classroom learning to clinical rotations can be an exciting yet overwhelming time. Many students, including myself, look forward to starting on a new journey where we get to put our hard-earned knowledge to the test. It is exciting knowing that the long study hours will soon be behind us, and we will finally get to have hands-on clinical experience. Along with the excitement comes anxiety about direct patient interaction, performance evaluations, and fast-paced learning environments. Each rotation brings new challenges and unfamiliar situations. The uncertainty of what to expect can create anxiety as medical students can feel unprepared for the clinical scenarios they will encounter.  Here are some tips to help ease the transition and make the most of your clinical rotations:

1.      Preparation: Review relevant medical knowledge before starting each rotation to refresh your memory on important concepts.

2.      Build relationships: Establish positive relationships with your preceptors and residents. It is important to ask for feedback and improve on constructive criticism.

3.      Effective communication: Practice presenting patient cases, discussing treatment plans, and writing progress notes.

4.      Adaptability: Be flexible and embrace different clinical settings, patient populations, and healthcare teams.

Clinical rotations are a chance to gain confidence and expand your knowledge in the medical field. However, it is equally important to prioritize your mental health as it can enhance the overall learning experience. Here are some ways in which you can better manage the anxiety and stress of rotations:

1.      Normalize your feelings: It is normal to feel a mix of excitement and anxiety during this transition and you are not alone in experiencing them.

2.      Prioritize self-care:  Incorporate regular exercise into your routine, eat a balanced diet, and ensure you get enough sleep.

3.      Mindfulness and relaxation techniques: Practice mindfulness or meditation to help manage stress. Many online resources can help guide you through simple exercises.

4.      Stay connected: Maintain a support system with your classmates. Having peers who understand and empathize with the challenges can be extremely helpful.

Remember to be patient with yourself and that you have earned your place through hard work and dedication!