Psychological well-being isn’t simply the absence of distress. ItS a harmonious state of being, marked by a positive outlook on life, a sense of fulfillment, and a striving towards meaningful goals.Strong, supportive relationships, and the ability to navigate daily challenges with resilience, all contribute to this holistic state.Dr. Tania Vives Varela, Head of the Research Department in Medical Education at the UNAM’s Faculty of Medicine, emphasizes this multifaceted nature of well-being.
In a recent talk titled “Psychological Well-being in Three Generations of Faculty of Medicine Graduates During the Pandemic,” Dr. Vives Varela and Dr.Fernando Flores Hernández, a Professor at the Faculty of Medicine, shed light on the crucial role of emotional well-being for students, faculty, and all members of the academic community. The event, part of the 23rd session of the second cycle of Basic Sciences Conferences, was hosted by the Communication coordination and streamed live on YouTube and Facebook Live.
Dr. Vives Varela highlighted the impact of various factors on psychological well-being, including nutrition, social support, stress management, emotional regulation, and empathy. Stress, she explained, is a natural human response to challenging situations, but when poorly managed, it can become chronic, negatively impacting physical, emotional, and social well-being, ultimately affecting academic performance, concentration, and productivity.
Dr. Flores hernández emphasized the unique emotional experiences of medical students, particularly those who graduated in 2020, 2021, and 2022. These generations faced not only the typical challenges of medical training but also the added stress of the pandemic, which brought about isolation, emotional strain, and economic uncertainty.
While there are some common emotional patterns across these graduating cohorts, Dr. Flores Hernández noted that a notable number of students experience symptoms of depression and anxiety. This highlights the importance of mental health support within the medical community. Despite these challenges, Dr. Flores Hernández underscored the resilience and growth of medical students, who demonstrate a strong commitment to their profession and a drive to excel.
What are some effective stress management techniques for medical students?
Interview with Dr. tania Vives Varela on Psychological Well-Being in Medical Education
Editor, Time.news: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Vives Varela. Your recent talk on psychological well-being among Medical Faculty graduates during the pandemic has gained important attention. Can you start by explaining what psychological well-being truly encompasses?
dr.Tania Vives Varela: thank you for having me. Psychological well-being is a multidimensional state that goes beyond merely the absence of distress. It encompasses a positive outlook on life, a sense of fulfillment, and the pursuit of meaningful goals. To achieve this holistic state,individuals need strong,supportive relationships and resilience to navigate daily challenges effectively.
Editor: That’s insightful. During the pandemic, you observed the experiences of medical students across three graduating cohorts. What unique challenges did they face, and how did these affect their psychological well-being?
Dr. Vives Varela: The students who graduated in 2020, 2021, and 2022 faced unprecedented challenges. they were not only grappling with the typical rigors of medical training but also enduring the emotional strain brought on by isolation, economic uncertainty, and the overall anxiety associated with a global pandemic. This combination exacerbated feelings of stress and contributed to notable symptoms of depression and anxiety among students.
Editor: Stress is a common issue for students in medical training. In your talk, you discussed the importance of managing stress effectively. Can you elaborate on this?
Dr. Vives Varela: Absolutely. stress is a natural response to challenges, but it becomes detrimental when it turns chronic.Poorly managed stress negatively impacts not just emotional health but physical and social well-being as well. This can ultimately lead to decreased academic performance, reduced concentration, and lower productivity. Implementing effective stress management techniques, such as mindfulness, regular physical activity, and seeking social support, is essential.
Editor: You mentioned nutrition, emotional regulation, and empathy as contributing factors to psychological well-being. Why are these elements particularly vital for medical students?
Dr. Vives Varela: For medical students, maintaining a balanced diet can significantly impact cognitive function and emotional stability. Emotional regulation is critical in high-pressure environments, helping students respond constructively rather than reactively to stressors. Lastly, empathy is a cornerstone of medical practice, allowing future healthcare providers to connect with patients and colleagues meaningfully. Developing these skills enhances their ability to cope with challenges and fosters a sense of community.
Editor: Dr. Fernando Flores Hernández also highlighted the resilience and commitment of medical students despite these challenges. What can educational institutions do to support students’ mental health in the long run?
Dr. Vives Varela: Institutions can implement thorough mental health support systems, including counseling services and wellness programs that focus on emotional and psychological well-being. Offering workshops on stress management and emotional regulation can equip students with the tools they need. It’s also vital for academic communities to foster environments that encourage open discussions about mental health, reducing stigma and promoting a culture of support.
Editor: This has been incredibly informative, Dr. Vives Varela. What final thoughts would you like to share with our readers about psychological well-being in the context of medical education?
Dr. Vives varela: I encourage both current and prospective medical students to prioritize their psychological well-being as they embark on this demanding yet rewarding journey. Recognizing the importance of mental health and actively seeking support when needed can significantly enhance one’s educational experience and professional development. Remember, achieving psychological well-being is a journey that involves self-care, resilience, and connection with others.
Editor: Thank you for these valuable insights,Dr. Vives Varela. Your expertise in psychological well-being within medical education is crucial, especially in these challenging times.