‘Just What the Doctor Ordered’: Promoting Wellbeing With Medical Students

Abstract

The tertiary student experience is not the same for all. Some students navigate the challenges of student life and flourish amidst stresses, whilst others experience considerable distress and disengage (Stallman, 2010; Larcombe et al., 2015). Much research has sought to identify what factors contribute to students’ thriving at university and what constitutes a successful student. Medical students have long been thought of as ‘successful’ students with high academic attainments and abilities, however recent research suggests medical students experience higher rates of mental health distress and suicidal ideation compared to the broader student population (Rotenstein et al., 2016). In recognition of the challenges faced by medical students, in 2017 the Melbourne Medical School (MMS) developed a new proactive approach to student wellbeing through adopting a ‘Health Promoting University’ strategic model (Okanagan Charter, 2015). The overarching strategic model entails a stage-based process of program endorsement, implementation and evaluation; of which the MMS is currently half way through (Stage 4). The framework has facilitated the development of proactive individual interventions and group based programs, all designed in close consultation with medical students, and seeking to broaden the scope of what constitutes a successful medical student. This innovative approach to medical student health and wellbeing demonstrates a school-wide, prevention-based approach to promoting student wellbeing. The authors detail the design, beginning stages of delivery, and future plans and aspirations for this evidence-based model of student wellbeing.