"Step Out" - Our Chapter's response to medical student burnout

The December 6th, 2016 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association featured an article titled Prevalence of Depression and Suicidal Ideation Among Medical Students: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. The authors found that roughly 22% - but perhaps as many as 55% - of medical students experience depressive symptoms. Additionally, roughly 11% screened positive for suicidal ideation. Despite these high numbers, only 15.7% of medical students who screen positive for depression actually seek any kind of treatment.

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These findings launched our chapter's policy proposal for support for studies to address the implications of burnout in medical faculty and students. It also had us asking alot of questions about what we could do as a chapter to help our chapter members cope with the stresses of life and medical school.

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So what is the guide?

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This guide is meant to be a resource for students who are feeling like they just need to get out, whether that be to a new study location or a much needed study break. It was inspired by "Step Out Buffalo" - a popular website that lists upcoming events in the Buffalo area - but is tailored to the needs of medical students (which often involve caffeine and quiet more than concerts and fine-dining).

 

With reviews written by our chapter members, the guide gives you the best recommendations for busy students. Hopefully it will also be a reminder that even those "busy students" need some time for themselves.

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We encourage members to actively participate in updating this resource by downloading the submission forms from this page and sending them to our chapter at sunybuffaloama@gmail.com. Tell us where you like to study, your best time for your favorite running route, or where to grab a quick dinner  for nights when cooking seems like too much work.

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Work hard. Explore. Have fun.