Valuing and Maintaining Your Support System
← Back to Table of ContentsHelping an Ill Family Member →
____Yes ____No
Question #2: Do I often feel alone with no one to turn to in times of need?
____Yes ____No
Introduction:
Going through medical school can be extremely stressful and nerve-wracking at times. Students often learn to deal with these situations on their own through the use of effective coping strategies. However, a student may not feel equipped to handle the stress without the support of others, whether it may be in the form of assistance, advice, or having a “sounding board”. It is important to form and nurture these support systems; they can make all the difference in a student’s life
Strategies:
- Say “thank you.” Voicing your gratitude can go a long way. People who provide support also need to feel appreciated.
- Remember NOT to take your support system for granted. Show your appreciation with a simple but meaningful gesture such as a hug, a flower, a special note, or a favorite snack.
- You may need to identify different support systems for your differing needs. Be proactive about talking to people who may be able to offer advice and support.
- Don’t always receive, take the time to give back.
- Communicate your needs; never assume that others, even close relationships, can read your mind.
- Have fun with your support systems when appropriate. HUMOR and LAUGHTER can result in miracles and can make all the difference.
- Tell your support system specifically what they’ve meant to you. “Aunty, if it wasn’t for your financial help, occasional free dinners, and couch for me to nap on, I really don’t think I could make it through medical school. You’ve really made a difference in my life.”
- Invite your support system to your White Coat Ceremony, Medical School Convocation and to the Manoa Graduation.
People to Talk To:
|
Name
|
Title
|
Phone
|
Email
|
| Lawrence Burgess, MD | Director of Student Affairs |
(808) 692-1000
|
lburgess@hawaii.edu |
| Kristen Teranishi, MD, MS | Assistant Director of Student Affairs |
(808) 692-1006
|
kteranis@hawaii.edu |
| Diana Thompson | Learning Specialist |
(808) 692-1138
|
dianalt@hawaii.edu |
| Kristen Tom, PsyD | Learning Specialist and Medical Education |
(808) 692-1003
|
kktom@hawaii.edu |
|
My classmates, friends, and family; My faculty advisor
|
|||
Note: Confidential counseling services are provided for medical students through the Counseling and Student Development Center (956-7927).
In times of a mental health crisis, individuals may call 832-3100 to access the Crisis Line of Hawaii, staffed 24/7. If you believe you are a danger to yourself or to others, please call 911 or go to the nearest ER for assistance.
Final Thoughts:
You do not have to always handle everything by yourself. If you need support and advice, reach out and ask. Asking for support is not a sign of weakness. It can be a measure of one’s maturity and insight. Value and maintain your support systems. Let them know how much you appreciate them
Quotes from former JABSOM students:
“Although I’ve always thought of myself as a strong person, there were moments in med school where the support of my family and friends meant a lot. Sometimes just being able to cry in front of them was comforting. It was easy to neglect relationships in med school, but as time went on, I got better at calling, e-mailing, and spending time with loved ones when I had some time.”
“My first year of medical school was one of my biggest challenges. So many things were going wrong in my life, and at some points, I lost my interest in becoming a doctor. However, because of the great moral support I received from good friends, family, other medical students, and our counselors, I became stronger and more driven. I am glad they were there when I was most in need. I truly appreciate their support.”
“I think it is normal to feel uncertain sometimes. When I did, I mentioned it to my significant other and he would help to remind me why I am here.”