Many physicians enter medical school brimming with confidence, but leave with a very low self-esteem, according to an article on Medscape.
Here are four notes:
1. A survey was given to physicians and students to answer the question, “How has medical school impacted your overall self-confidence and/or self-esteem?” Of the respondents, 42 percent reported an increase, 50 percent reported a decrease, and 8 percent noted no change.
2. For many, the overwhelming amount of information a physician needs to know to practice good medicine, or the pressures of dealing with Medicare, insurance companies and hospital or practice administrators undermined their self-esteem.
3. Of those who reported a decrease in self-confidence, their experiences often led to chronic mental health issues, including PTSD.
4. Pamela L. Wible, MD, a host of physician retreats on career reclamation and conductor of the survey, offers these points of advice:
- Stop institutional abuse;
- Seek mental healthcare;
- Build strong relationships;
- Promote a culture of open communication and respect;
- Refuse to be a victim.