Third-year medical student Robert Sithole shares some valuable advice on looking after your wellbeing during your medical studies.
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In the fast-paced pace never-ending world of medical school, looking after myself is super important for both my happiness and success. If I don't take care of myself, it can really mess up how well I do in this tough place. So, I've come up with lots of ways to make sure I stay healthy and happy while dealing with all the hard stuff.
Ignoring my well-being can have serious consequences. It can lead to burnout, decreased productivity, and even health problems down the road. By taking care of myself, I'm not only making sure I do well in medical school but also setting myself up for a healthy and successful future. So, even when things get busy, it's important to prioritise self-care and remember that my well-being matters.
First off, I make sure to take breaks and do things I enjoy. Whether it's taking a breather in the park, hanging out with my family, or doing stuff like watching a movie or cooking, these breaks help me feel better and give me energy. Even short breaks can make a big difference in how I feel and how well I can focus on my studies.
I also pay attention to keeping my body healthy. This means eating good food, drinking lots of water, and getting enough sleep. When I eat well and sleep enough, I feel more awake and can think better. I also try to move around during the day, whether it's by stretching, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, or doing a quick workout.
Mindfulness practices and ways to deal with stress are also important. I try to take deep breaths, do some simple meditation, or write down my thoughts to calm down when things get tough. These things help me feel calmer and more focused, even when there's a lot going on.
I've also learned to set boundaries and say no when I need to. It's okay to not do everything or ask for help when I need it. By knowing my limits and taking breaks when I need them, I can avoid getting too stressed out and overwhelmed.
Keeping in touch with others is a big help too. Having friends and classmates to talk to and hang out with makes medical school feel less lonely and scary. Studying together can also be more fun and keep me motivated.
Lastly, I make sure to celebrate my wins and be grateful for the good stuff. Whether it's taking a test, learning something new, or just getting through a tough day, I pat myself on the back and appreciate the progress I've made. Being thankful and celebrating even the little things helps me stay positive and keep going when things get tough.
In the end, taking care of myself isn't just about feeling good it's about doing well in medical school too. By taking breaks, eating well, dealing with stress, setting boundaries, staying connected, and being grateful, I can handle the tough parts of medical school better and stay happy and healthy along the way.
