Author: Veronica Amajoyi, St. George’s University SOM, MS3
Embarking on the journey of medical school is a challenging endeavor, made even more formidable when coupled with personal health battles. As a breast cancer survivor, my path has been strewn with a myriad of health challenges. Following years of rigorous treatment, many might opt for a tranquil life, focused on nurturing peace of mind, body, and spirit. Contrary to this, after completing chemotherapy, numerous surgeries, and radiation, I chose a path of service by entering medical school. This decision, though immensely rewarding, required me to constantly devise new methods to maintain my mental and physical well-being, ensuring I could perform on par with my peers. The challenge was daunting, but now, in my third year, I’ve developed numerous strategies to ensure I prioritize my well-being, enabling me to effectively care for others.
This post is dedicated to sharing a few of these strategies and insights, helping you maneuver through the rigorous demands of medical education while keeping your mental and physical health at the forefront.
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Strategies for Success and Health
1. The Transformative Power of Exercise: Being immersed in the relentless schedule of medical school often feels like a 24-hour commitment to studying. In such a scenario, incorporating activities like exercise might seem like an unnecessary diversion, potentially eating into precious study time. This is a challenge I’ve faced and continue to navigate through my medical school journey. However, integrating exercise into my routine has been nothing short of transformative, both for my mental and physical well-being. It’s not an exaggeration to say that it has been a lifesaver in these intense three years of medical training.
*Go the extra mile* In addition to exercising, take the extra step to choose healthy snacking while studying.The usual go-to snacks for long study sessions — large bags of chips, sweets, and other high-salt, high-fat options — are temptingly convenient but far from beneficial in the long run. Replacing these with healthier alternatives like carrots, low-salt/fat snacks, smoothies, and an assortment of fruits and vegetables has been another game-changer. These healthier choices contribute not just to physical health but also to better concentration and stamina during long study hours.
2. Prioritize Hobbies Like Studying: In the high-pressure environment of medical school, it’s common to internalize a sense of guilt for engaging in activities outside of studying. This is a mindset I had to actively unlearn. Recognizing that hobbies and leisure activities are not just frivolous pastimes but essential components of a well-rounded life was crucial. So, go to the movies, try a new restaurant, or travel to a friends house to hang out. Choosing at least one leisure activity to do a week, can make all the difference.
*Go the extra mile* In the relentless and high-stress environment of medical school, the concept of taking an entire day off each week to decompress can seem daunting, almost impossible. As someone who has navigated the rigorous demands of medical studies while managing personal health issues, I understand this challenge intimately. Yet, I’ve discovered that dedicating one day a week to complete rest, relaxation, and enjoyment is not just beneficial, it’s transformative. Initially, the idea of taking a full day off seemed impractical to me. However, over time, I’ve realized that this practice is crucial for maintaining my health, preventing burnout, and actually improving my performance in medical school. It’s a reminder that success in this demanding field requires not just hard work and dedication, but also regular periods of rest and disengagement. This balanced approach has been a key factor in my ability to continue pursuing my medical career despite the additional challenges posed by my health.
3. Being Adaptable: Having a type A personality often means a preference for structure, order, and meticulous planning. This trait, while beneficial in many aspects of medical school, can also become a hurdle, especially when it comes to adapting to unexpected changes or health needs. As someone with this personality type, I’ve often found it difficult to deviate from my meticulously set schedules. My journey through medical school, compounded by my experience as a breast cancer survivor, has taught me the crucial lesson of adaptability. Understanding that my body has undergone significant trauma meant acknowledging that I couldn’t always keep up with the same intensity of study as my peers. My susceptibility to illness and chronic fatigue required a reevaluation of how I approached my studies. Understanding this, I had to embrace flexibility. Knowing that it’s okay to take things slower or seek accommodations if needed.
4. Practicing Self-Compassion: As a medical student who has faced significant health challenges, I’ve learned the hard way that being hard on myself only exacerbates stress and hampers progress. Adopting a more compassionate and gentle approach has not only improved my mental health but also enhanced my academic performance. It’s a continuous process, one where I constantly remind myself that being understanding and soft with myself is not a luxury, but a necessity. This approach has allowed me to navigate the demanding world of medical education with greater ease and resilience.
The path through medical school while managing health issues is not a straight line. It demands resilience, adaptability, and a strong support system. Remember, taking care of your health is not a detour from your medical journey; it is a vital part of ensuring you can become the best healthcare professional you aspire to be.
Call to Action:
Are you a medical student navigating similar challenges? Share your experiences and strategies in the comments below. Let’s build a community that supports and uplifts each other through this journey. Remember, every individual’s journey is unique, and what works for one person might not work for another. It’s important to find the balance and strategies that work best for you.