I knew about it. My D. talked about it. Importance of having a balanced life is crucial. Having a partner outside of the medical field may also help. Having wide range of interests and pursue them as much as time limitations allow and also regular exercise are very beneficial. Those who understood this way back at college and during medical school are definitely at advantage. “Suitability for her chosen specialty” is a very high priority. My D. ruled out several. Her personality simply did not fit in some and she took this fact very seriously. Rotations during medical school are definitely helpful in this aspect.
As a mother, I am “thrilled and excited” when I hear satisfaction in the D’s voice. The telephone conversations in our relationship are much more important than any other means of remote communication. I can always “hear it” in her voice. Overall she started sounding much better during residency in comparison to the medical school. She had one negative experience and she called me right away to discuss. There are other people in her life that are good source of positive support for her. She knows that she needs it sometime. Frankly, even having a dog at home, the live creature who is always there for you and unconditionally loves you, has been very helpful. The funny thing about the last, D. grew up without dog or cat in our house, we never had any. D. should have easier and more balanced time starting July 1, when she will be in her specialty. It will have its own challenges, she will have to study a lot. But she will not have a crazy schedule with many 30 hrs shifts and only 1 day off at random day of the week. She will start working normal human hours and being off on the weekends.
Best wishes to all very hard working medical students, residents and their worrying parents!