At JCUMSA we understand the importance of good health and wellbeing in medical students. Wellbeing encompasses healthy living, a stable mental state and a feeling of contentment. These aspects of health can be achieved by maintaining a balance in one's social, work and family lives and are important for doctors and patients alike. Medical school opens the door to a rewarding and wonderful career ahead; however it comes with its challenges. There may be times when you feel that you are not fulfilling the expectations that you have set for yourself. As such, it is possible that you may neglect your wellbeing in order to achieve your personal best.

There is no shame in feeling stress or anxiety at medical school, as this is more common than you may imagine. Several recent studies have highlighted the consistently high rates of suicide, depression, anxiety disorders and substance use among medical students. Hence, at JCUMSA it is our goal to increase awareness of mental health issues and to make it clear that reactions of depression or stress should  not be left unattended. In order to look after our health it is vital that we all pay attention to our lifestyle habits. This is because the way we look after ourselves affects the way we practice as doctors in the future.

JCUMSA is here to support you and assist you to become the best doctor you can be. Hence this website has been updated to include useful links and resources to give you ideas on how to lead a balanced life in medical school and information on important mental health issues.

The objectives for the wellbeing program at JCUMSA 2012 are to:

1)  Reduce the stigma associated with mental health symptoms by increasing student awareness of depression and anxiety prevalence

2)  Encourage health living by stressing the importance of good diet and adequate exercise

3)  Increase the cultural awareness of the students by promoting participation in the wider community

4)  Ensure all medical students feel well supported by JCUMSA

5)  Increase medical student knowledge regarding mental health, especially in the areas of depression, anxiety and anger, through the provision of resources and events

If you have any questions regarding health and wellbeing at JCUMSA please email Delara Javat at: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it