Medical Depression in med school, how to deal?

[southerndoc]

Med school is inherently tough and draining. I recently went through a break up in a long term relationship, with an SO i dated since late high school, and it was a very ugly ending that spanned over months. It is taking a toll on me in every way there is, from emotionally to mentally to physically. I am definitely depressed by all means, from sleeping too much to not barely eating to not enjoying anything whatsoever, including school. I barely passed my classes last semester. I am currently on break and i could not be more lucky because if we were in school I don't think i have it in me to focus on anything. I have to admit, i never understood depression, I was one of the fools who always downplayed this condition, but it is God awful. I went to get help and was placed on antidepressants, but have not started the meds yet due to insurance issues. I am scared for when the next semester begins, i am very scared. I will be taking the STEP exam next July and i should be thinking about prepping soon, especially that i have no learned almost anything for the past 6 months. I thought about speaking with my dean and asking for a year off, but it's very saddening that i'd be self-destructing my own life over this. I have an amazing support system which im grateful for, but I am just scared, very scared. id appreciate any words of encouragement regarding this topic.

Does your school have a counselor you can talk to? Antidepressants are only part of the help available. Medical school is tough enough (I was depressed during medical school from the course load). I can only imagine what you're going through. Definitely finding someone to talk to will help.

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[tantacles]

More than starting meds, many people find speaking to a therapist can be helpful to process their feelings. Given that this is causing you significant distress, that is what I would suggest for you as well. It will give you a neutral outlet with whom you can discuss your situation openly and without fear of judgment.

 

[Mr.Smile12]

It sounds like you did go to a therapist who prescribed antidepressants. I'm not sure that you have been helped, especially if you chose not to take them. I am not a physician to know or comment on your situation. You need a support system to also help you, and that is not clear from what you have described.

You probably should talk with your student dean if you are thinking about a leave of absence. Get the information you need before making the decision to slow down for your own health and education.

 

[TheBoneDoctah]

As others have said you need to have someone to talk with about this. Medical school IS hard and it really only gets tougher with boards and rotations down the road. You need to get your mind right before getting deeper into this.