Description:
Wellness is a critical component of the neurology programs. There is a growing body of literature focusing on poor mental health in residency and fellowship and the impact that this has on medical training. One study in the British Medical Journal found that residents who were depressed made 6.2 times as many medical errors than their colleagues who were not depressed. Notably, in the cohort of 123 residents involved in the study, 20% met criteria for depression and 74% met criteria for burnout. Stress-related exhaustion, which is thought to be similar to burnout, has been associated with cognitive impairment in memory and executive functioning. Finding ways to address and improve resident wellbeing is imperative for the health of the residents and the residency program as a whole.
Evaluation:
Fellows have the opportunity to provide feedback to faculty and Chaplain regarding effectiveness of sessions. Areas of concern identified during sessions will be addressed by supervisors.
Goals and Objectives:
Medical Knowledge
- Fellows will learn the impact of burnout, sleep deprivation, fatigue, substance abuse and mood disorders on cognitive function as it relates to patient care. Techniques for managing stress and burnout will be taught. Recognition of burnout in oneself and identification of a struggling colleague with a clear protocol for how to obtain the necessary help or intervention will be taught.
Patient Care
- Fellows will have protected time for reflection on difficult patient cases and case load and group discussions regarding how to manage demands of residency.
Systems-Based Practice
- Open forums will allow for new ideas on how improving workflow and educational responsibilities to improve resident well-being.
Practice-Based Learning and Improvement
- Fellows will learn about the growing body of literature that supports active maintenance of mental health and well-being in physicians and how to apply this data to residency and lifelong practice.
Interpersonal and Communication Skills
- Fellows will have the opportunity to discuss difficult patient care and professional situations in a safe environment with one another and with mental health professionals.
Professionalism
- Fellows will learn how to address burnout and mental health issues in themselves and colleagues in a professional manner.
Activities/Components:
Wellness will be addressed through several approaches:
Noon conference series:
There will be 4-5 noon conference sessions each year led by Linda Golding, from the pastoral care office to discuss broad topics such as resilience, mediation, and mindfulness techniques. There is also a yearly lecture on sleep deprivation and burnout.
Meetings:
Fellows will meet in-person or via teleconference with Dr. Mendiratta at least quarterly to discuss the fellowship and their personal wellbeing. Additional meetings are also available by request.
Medical Appointments and Self Care:
Fellows should be aware that the Epilepsy Fellowship Program and its faculty will incorporate scheduled time for medical care and appointments as necessary for each trainee. Please speak with the Program Director if schedule changes are needed to afford adequate time and or to facilitate time for said care. The Program recognizes the need and supports its trainees in ensuring their wellbeing.
House Staff Mental Health Resources:
Short-term, confidential mental health care is available at no cost to house staff. Campus directors will work with you to develop a plan to receive care, and can be reached at the following numbers:
The following Mental Health Resources are available to all House Staff. NYP supports your mental health with these confidential services at no cost to you.
If you are experiencing emotional distress please use any of the resources listed here for help.
CUIMC Director: Laurel Mayer, MD
T: 646.774.8067; lsm16@cumc.columbia.edu
Workforce Health and Safety Occupational Psychiatry
Psychiatrists and clinical case managers are available at Workforce Health and Safety during office hours or you may also reach out directly to make an appointment: CUIMC: Lesley Kondratowicz, 212.305.0861
CopeNYP
Quick and free access to confidential virtual counseling with clinicians from Weill Cornell and Columbia. You can schedule a virtual visit by emailing empcounselinghelp@med.cornell.edu or calling 646.962.2710 (M-F, 9AM - 5PM)
NYPH GME Crisis Lines
If you feel you require more immediate attention and cannot wait for a return phone call an emergency psychiatry attending on campus can arrange to see you quickly and confidentially.
Please call the Psych ED and ask to speak to an attending.
CUIMC Crisis Line 212.305.8075
Crisis Phone Lines National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-273- 8255
Crisis Text Line: Text TALK to 741741