The Human Side of Healthcare: A Conversation on Imposter Syndrome and Self-Compassion

In this episode, Dr. Mariam Pereira and Dr. Melany McKenna delve into the pervasive issue of imposter syndrome among healthcare professionals. They share personal experiences and insights, highlighting how the pressures of medical training and the high expectations within the healthcare field can lead to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. The discussion emphasizes the importance of self-compassion, the value of seeking support from colleagues, and the need for a compassionate workplace culture that encourages open communication and learning from mistakes.

 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Many healthcare professionals, including doctors and psychologists, experience imposter syndrome, which involves doubting their accomplishments and fearing being exposed as a fraud despite evidence of their competence.

• Practicing self-compassion is crucial when dealing with imposter syndrome. Acknowledging the critical voice without harsh self-judgment can help individuals respond more kindly to their feelings of inadequacy.

• Building a supportive team culture where colleagues feel safe to share their experiences and mistakes can help mitigate the effects of imposter syndrome.

• Establishing Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Time-scaled goals can help healthcare professionals manage their workload and reduce feelings of overwhelm, making it easier to track progress and celebrate achievements.

• It's essential to remember that healthcare professionals are human and can make mistakes. Acknowledging this humanity can help reduce the stigma around discussing mental health and the challenges faced in the profession.

 

BEST MOMENTS

"I personally felt like I was going to fail every year and had a miserable time of it and really struggled with feeling like I was good enough."

"I wonder whether there's something in that that then means that even when we're really successful or we're doing a really good job, that it's just never quite good enough in our minds for that little imposter voice."

"I think the doctor population is just such an intelligent and experienced and skilled profession, full of the best of the best."

"It's about promoting safety, feeling safe in that culture, and feeling safe to speak out about anything that might be going wrong."

"I think it's really important to try and take positive criticism for what it is and use it to improve your skills or to improve the quality of the work that you put out."

 

HOST BIO

Mariam is a GP trainee in Wales passionate about improving our healthcare colleagues' wellbeing. She has experience on the Schwartz Round Steering group and as a facilitator for her health board, and she created and led the Balint Group Programme for Foundation Doctors in her hospital. These are regular spaces for healthcare professionals to speak about real issues that affect their well-being amongst colleagues to improve mutual support and camaraderie in the workplace. She also holds qualifications in Life Coaching and healthcare leadership and management. Whatever your reason for joining us on this podcast, we are glad you have taken the time. 

Dr Melany McKenna is a Clinical Psychologist, Cognitive Analytic Therapy practitioner, and Executive Coach. With a specialist interest in staff wellbeing, and supporting NHS professionals, Dr McKenna offers psychologically informed reflections, prompting us to consider staff wellbeing from a systemic perspective.

If you are having stressful days at work, leaving you feeling demotivated, and depleted, I'm hoping I can help here.