Understanding Depression and Distress Among Medical Students

Abstract

Medical schools are entrusted with transforming bright and humanistic students into capable, compassionate physicians who will dedicate their lives to serving others. How best to fulfill this responsibility has emerged as a central concern of the medical profession. Research and self-honest observation over decades have revealed that many of the experiences of medical school may overwhelm and exhaust rather than inspire and instruct students. Indeed, contrary to the intent of medical educators, the experiences of medical training may damage the well-being and diminish the professionalism of many early-career colleagues.