Things I wish I'd known: desiderata for early career psychiatrists. (February 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ng, Lillian; Steane, Richard; Chacko, Emme; Scollay, Natalie
• Is Part Of: Australasian psychiatry. Volume 25:Number 1(2017:Feb.)
• Page Start: 78
• Page End: 81
• Publication Date: 2017-02
• Subjects: early career psychiatrist -- self-care -- work-life balance -- mentor; Psychiatry -- Australasia -- Periodicals; Psychiatry -- Periodicals; 616.89005
• DOI: 10.1177/1039856216671659
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1039-8562

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study was to disseminate advice imparted to early career psychiatrists by a panel of senior colleagues at a Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists symposium, reflecting on things they wished they had known at the earlier stage in their careers. Methods: Key themes were extracted from notes taken at the symposium, where opinions were expressed by three senior psychiatrists. Results: There are components in building a sustainable career as a psychiatrist, which include considering one's work environment and relationships with colleagues; self-care, mentorship and reflective practice; and seeking opportunities to teach and research for career progression. Conclusions: The mentorship and advice from senior colleagues can be highly influential. In order to sustain a career that has reward, meaning and longevity, psychiatrists would do well to pay attention to aspects of self-care, stay connected to their loved ones, seek an optimal work–life balance and take an interest in their long term career plans.