Personal Stories

Articles:

Out of the Shadows: Physicians Share Their Mental Health Struggles

This article from the AAMC features candid stories from physicians who have experienced mental health challenges. It highlights their journeys toward seeking help, breaking stigma, and prioritizing wellbeing while continuing to provide high-quality care. The piece underscores the importance of open conversations and support within the medical community.

Access the story here.

 

Learn From Me: Speak Out, Seek Help, Get Treatment - Steve Robson

This Insight+ article shares a personal account from a doctor who experienced significant mental health challenges. It emphasizes the importance of speaking openly, seeking professional help, and accessing treatment without fear of stigma. The story serves as a reminder that prioritizing mental health is essential for sustaining wellbeing and delivering quality care.

Access the story here.

 

Depression: "I Felt Trapped in This Darkness" - Geoff Toogood

This SBS Insight article shares the personal story of Geoff Toogood, Cardiologist, who experienced severe depression while working in medicine. It explores the impact of mental health challenges on medical professionals, the importance of seeking help, and breaking the stigma surrounding mental illness in healthcare.

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Ben Bravey: The Patient Doctor

This Cancer Council article shares the inspiring story of Ben Bravery, who transitioned from being a cancer patient to becoming a doctor. It explores his journey through illness, recovery, and medical training, highlighting the importance of empathy, resilience, and patient-centered care in the healthcare profession.

Access the story here.

 

Why Connection Matters: GP’s Backing for Mental Health

This RACGP article explores the critical role of social connection in supporting mental health and wellbeing. It highlights evidence-based insights on how fostering meaningful relationships can reduce stress, improve resilience, and enhance overall health outcomes, particularly for general practitioners and their patients.

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GP: Don't Be a Hero

This Medical Republic article discusses the pressures faced by general practitioners and the risks of neglecting personal wellbeing in the pursuit of patient care. It emphasizes the importance of seeking support, setting boundaries, and prioritizing mental health to sustain a safe and effective medical practice.

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Personal Best – Atul Gawande

This article examines the role of coaching in professional development, arguing that even experienced practitioners benefit from external feedback to maintain and improve performance. Gawande shares insights from his own surgical practice, highlighting the importance of continuous learning and mentorship in achieving excellence.

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Podcasts:

Avant Podcast: Doctors in Recovery

This Avant podcast explores the experiences of doctors in recovery from substance use issues. Through candid conversations, it highlights the challenges faced, the importance of seeking help, and the pathways to rehabilitation and wellbeing within the medical profession.

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DoctorAMA - Podcast with Prof Steve Robson and Dr Anne Tonkin

This podcast episode features an in-depth discussion on the mental health challenges faced by doctors and the importance of seeking support. It explores personal experiences, strategies for resilience, and resources available to medical professionals navigating stress and wellbeing concerns.

Access the story here

 

Podcast: Lived Experiences of Psychiatrists

This PsychMatters podcast episode explores the personal experiences of psychiatrists who have faced mental health challenges. It provides insights into their journeys, the impact on professional practice, and the importance of reducing stigma and fostering open conversations within the medical community.

Access the story here

 

Podcast: The Good GP

This podcast series explores mental health and wellbeing within the medical profession. Episodes feature discussions on resilience, self-care strategies, and personal experiences from healthcare professionals, offering insights into maintaining balance and supporting mental health in demanding clinical environments.

Access the story here

 

Podcast: A Bully in Theatre

This episode from the Safeguarding Healthcare podcast examines the impact of bullying within surgical and theatre environments. It discusses real experiences, the consequences for mental health and patient safety, and strategies for creating respectful, supportive workplaces in healthcare.

Access the story here.

 

Podcast: Discover Self-Care Tools and Tips from Burnout

This episode provides practical strategies for managing burnout and prioritizing self-care in the medical profession. It explores evidence-based tools, personal insights, and actionable tips to help healthcare professionals maintain wellbeing and resilience in demanding environments.

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Webinars:

Quenching the Flame: Strategies to Prevent Burnout

Burnout is a prominent issue in the medical profession. Guest speakers A/Prof Antonio Di Dio, Dr Nick Coatsworth, Dr Marisa Magiros and Prof Brett McDermott reflect on their own journeys and share tips on how to prevent burnout in the first place.

Access the Webinar here.

 

Mental Wellness for Future Doctors: Strategies, Tools and Support

Guest speakers A/Prof Antonio Di Dio, Dr Jennifer Schafer and Dr Kerrie Aust shed light on the importance of reducing stigma, promoting mental health awareness, and understanding the intricacies of mental health in the medical field. Further, dive deep into practical tools and skills to help you manage the challenges and stressors you might encounter on your path.

Access the Webinar here.

 

Navigating the Storm - Depression and Anxiety in Medicine 

Suffering from anxiety or depression can make anyone feel isolated and overwhelmed. Unfortunately, there is still a stigma attached to talking about your own mental health in the medical profession. 

Access the Webinar here.

 

The Path Through Notification - Insights and Support

Receiving a notification can feel scary and you might feel like you are the only one going through this. However, many medical practitioners find themselves receiving a notification at some stage in their career. 

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Embracing the Inevitable: Dealing with Death in Medicine

Death is a ever-present topic in the medical profession, however, as in many aspects of life, it is not often talked about.  For medical students and doctors in training it can be challenging to deal with death and dying as part of their education and early working experience.

Access the Webinar here.