Blogs

Mental Health – a Heads Up on What’s Up

16 Sep 2016

Janet Harry

by Ms Janet Harry

Young female doctor looks pensive

The stigma of mental illness among doctors is preventing young doctors from speaking about it or obtaining treatment. The National Mental Health Survey of Doctors and Medical Students revealed one in five medical students and one in 10 early career doctors had suicidal thoughts in the 12 months before taking the survey. Close to half the respondents feared their careers would be damaged if they spoke about their illness. 

Recognising the importance of this issue for the profession, MDA National has joined forces with beyondblue to promote mental health awareness throughout the medical community 

beyondblue launched the Heads Up initiative in May 2014 – an Australian-first mental health workplace initiative – with advice for everyone in the workforce about taking care of their own mental health and supporting their colleagues.  

Remember you can also obtain personal advice and support from the Doctors’ Health Advisory Service if you are facing difficulties in relation to stress and mental illness.

 

 

This blog contains general information only. We recommend you contact your medical defence organisation or insurer when you require specific advice in relation to medico-legal matters.

 

Library

Reportable Deaths and Coronial Matters

MDA National's Daniel Spencer (Case Manager - Solicitor) and Karen Lam (Medico-Legal Adviser) discuss when a person's death should be reported to the Coroner and what to do if the Coroner requests a statement or report.

Death Certificates

When a doctor can write a death certificate (where the death does not need to be reported to the Coroner), considerations when writing the death certificate and how to complete it accurately.

Communication in healthcare teams

Why good and effective communication is a vital part of delivering quality and safe patient care

Doctors, Let's Talk: Setting Boundaries At Work

A conversation with Nicola Campbell, Psychiatry Registrar, that explores the necessity of setting professional boundaries as a Junior Doctor.

Podcasts

07 Dec 2022