What really works to reduce the consequences of stress in physicians and medical students?

Thanks to a meta-analysis completed by colleagues at uToronto and Queen's we have some ideas:

- anxiety symptoms drop with cognitive, behavioural and mindfulness interventions

- burnout symptoms drop with psycho-education, interpersonal communication enhancement, and mindfulness meditation

Given that up to 46% of Canadian physicians struggle with symptoms of moderate to severe burnout, and that rates of anxiety are higher in medical professionals than the general public, these conclusions are important.

Indeed, studies like this help identify competencies that can be embedded in models of training and practice, such as the emerging CanMEDs 2015 framework (specifically, the Professional Role).

Mindfulness is a well-established practice that effectively reduces stress and prevents symptoms of burnout.  Training designed for medical professions can be found locally, in various parts of the country like Montreal, or further afield.