Shayna F.

Photo provided by Shayna F.

If you’re reading this, don’t let your mind tell you that you’re not good enough.

In fact, there’s a lot of things I shouldn’t listen to that my mind tells me. Whether it’s “you don’t belong in medical school”, or “it’s a mistake that you’re here”, I feel that I can be my own biggest bully. I know that I’m not alone in having these thoughts, and that’s why it’s so important to speak up and promote mental-well-being. During such a demanding time of our lives, taking care of ourselves is essential.

I currently volunteer as a crisis counselor, and caring for my clients is not only my role but my passion. Here, I advise the practice of self-care, self-love, and self-kindness to my clients. So, why don’t I follow my own advice?

I need to begin practicing what I preach, as we will instruct our future patients to do these same exact things. To start, I have been trying to be kinder to myself. Instead of telling myself I don’t belong in medical school and it’s a mistake that I am, I now try to think that I am here for a reason. Instead of going into a test full of nerves and self-doubt, I now try to walk in with my head held high and take solace in my hard-work and preparation.

Self-care is so important, especially during medical school. Whether it’s hanging out with my new bunny, chatting with my family and friends, or watching sports, I try to do one thing for myself every day outside of school. This really grounds me and reminds me that I am more than an exam or a grade.

I am beyond fortunate to have a great support system who tells me I’m good enough. So, all that’s left is for me to believe it myself. I am working so hard to do so, and this confidence will undoubtedly translate into the classroom, clinic, and beyond.

So, if you’re reading this, I hope you will join me in telling yourself that you are good enough.

Shayna F., Second Year Medical Student

Several studies have revealed that medical students, physicians, and healthcare professionals experience mental health symptoms at rates significantly higher than the general population. Stethos[Cope] is a chapter of IfYoureReadingThis designed to help medical students and professionals cope with the unique stressors of medical training and change the narrative of mental health in medicine.

To read more letters and interviews from students, and to learn more about mental health in the medical community, visit the Stethos[Cope] home page.