Developmental challenges, stressors and coping strategies in medical residents: a qualitative analysis of support groups

Abstract

Introduction-Stress and burnout are endemic to post-graduate medical training but little research is available to guide supportive interventions. The identification of longitudinal emotional and developmental coping needs of internal medicine residents could assist in better designing and implementing supportive interventions.

Efficacy of Interventions to Reduce Resident Physician Burnout: A Systematic Review

“…Of the 14 observational studies that were assessed using the NOS (provided as online supplemental material), 2 were rated high quality, 12,13 and 7 were rated as being of moderate quality. 3,9,14,15,17,21,24 Of the 5 RCTs that were assessed using the Jadad scale (TABLE 1), 3 were rated high quality 8,18,19 (score ! 3), and the remaining 2 were rated to be of moderate quality.…”

“…Some other interventions to address burnout have been suggested, including supportive interventions for internal medicine residents. 3 Identifying challenges faced by trainees at different levels and across different specialties may assist in improved, effective tailoring of interventions. For example, 1 study found a significant correlation among burnout rates, peer relationships, and interventions aimed at improving peer relationships, which may reduce burnout in resident physicians.…”

“…21 Another study qualitatively assessed the role of the monthly support group meetings on resident burnout, finding improvement in burnout with training and noting the critical importance of peer relationships as a source of support during training. 3 An incentivized, 12-week exercise program Psychotherapeutic technique: background situation, patient's affect, the most troubling problem for the patient, the way the patient is handling the problem, and empathy; CRT, crossover randomized controlled trial; DP, depersonalization.…”

“…2 Several stressors are associated with burnout, such as situational stressors (work hours, sleep deprivation, and staff conflicts); personal stressors (conflicts with family or friends, financial difficulties, or moving to a new city); and professional stressors (patient responsibilities, teaching or supervisory responsibilities, and information overload and other special situations). 3 Medical educators struggle with determining appropriate methods to effectively address burnout among residents. While interventions have been implemented by some training programs to mitigate burnout, the medical education community would benefit from more evidence on the efficacy and generalizability of those interventions, and from the development of standardized methods for early identification of burnout and prompt intervention.…”

Addressing Depression and Suicide Among Physician Trainees

“…Past research has shown the value of peer support and the active role it plays in professional growth and satisfaction. 5 Group sessions would foster camaraderie; encourage honest, judgment-free discussions; and actively combat the feelings of isolation characteristic of depression.…”