One of the most fulfilling feelings (especially for someone like me who can be so indecisive) is to know when you belong. I have been off service for a few months, and let me tell you, I could not wait to be back on a Psychiatry rotation! Sure enough, during the month of January, I started back on Psychiatry, and it felt GOOD. GREAT even. But of course, with every new rotation, there’s a sense of discomfort. I like being good at everything from the get-go, and that’s not how life works. That’s not how learning always works. So, I ended up learning a great lesson—be kind to yourself and be patient. It’s okay to not know; that’s the whole point of learning and residency. It was an overwhelming start, as with any new rotation, but I learned the ropes.
I’m actually really enjoying consults. Some days are harder than others. So much communication is required. But the people interaction is really enjoyable. It’s nice to be able to provide a service that can be really beneficial and vital for patients. It was heartwarming to feel that sense of belonging. I made the right choice. I’m meant to be a psychiatrist even with some hard days and even with the really busy days.
This is typically a rotation reserved for PGY-2’s as they have more experience, but I have loved this rotation because of the amount of learning involved. The information feels vital and pertinent to patient care. That is something I appreciate and value. It allows me to feel I’m moving forward and not taking steps back even though there are days I feel overwhelmed as if I know nothing.
I’m just grateful to share that I finally feel like I belong. I’ve known I made the right choice, but I was just waiting on my feelings to catch up. In the meantime, please continue to stay safe and well. Best wishes!
Thoughts from a psychiatry resident physician,
Dr. AKP
