A Peer-Based Approach to Reducing Stigma and Improving Mental Health Support for Medical Students

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Published: Jan 23, 2017
DOI: https://doi.org/10.18192/uojm.v7i1.1803
Keywords:
mental health, depression, stigma, burnout, support, group

Main Article Content

Shale B Farber
University of Ottawa
Simon DG Parlow
Nicholas P Timmerman
University of Ottawa

Abstract

Abstract

Medical students experience a tremendous amount of stress during their training, which can have a profound effect on mental wellness. Several medical students at the University of Ottawa have created a peer-based program called Mind the Gap (MtG), which aims to improve mental health support and combat mental health-related stigma within the medical student community. The program consists of monthly meetings that invite students to discuss personal experiences and issues surrounding mental illness. The following article is a commentary outlining the MtG program, including its rationale and goals, and the challenges in implementing this type of program. 

Résumé

Les étudiants en médecine vivent un stress énorme au cours de leur formation, ce qui peut avoir un impact profond sur leur bien-être mental. Plusieurs étudiants en médecine à l’Université d’Ottawa ont mis sur pied un programme appelé « Mind the Gap » (MtG), qui vise à améliorer le soutien en santé mentale et à combattre la stigmatisation liée à la santé mentale dans la communauté médicale étudiante. Le programme est composé de rencontres mensuelles qui permettent aux étudiants de discuter de leurs expériences personnelles et des problèmes liés à la maladie mentale. L’article suivant est un commentaire donnant un aperçu du programme MtG, incluant sa raison d’être et ses buts, et les défis qui surviennent lors de la mise en place d’un tel programme. 


Article Details

Issue
UOJM Epub
Section
Commentary
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Author Biographies

Shale B Farber, University of Ottawa

Medical Student 4th Year, Class of 2017

Simon DG Parlow

Medical Student 4th Year, Class of 2017

Nicholas P Timmerman, University of Ottawa

Medical Student 3rd Year, Class of 2018

References

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3. Schwenk TL, Davis L, Wimsatt LA. Depression, stigma, and suicidal ideation in medical students. JAMA. 2010;304(11):1181–90.
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