There are things you will see every day in the ER most people only see once in a lifetime, if at all. As a resident, what measures will you use to avoid the depression that naturally comes from such consistent exposures?

"I know that bad things happen to good people, and that can especially be seen in the ER. In the heat of the moment, I commit to staying on task, no matter how psychologically disturbing the situation may be when I process it later. I understand that these things can sneak up on me and put my mental health at risk. The fact that I recognize this danger means I've taken the first step to prevent it. I have no problem taking the next step and seeking professional help if I find myself consumed with inappropriate or difficult feelings."

Constant exposure to the craziest situations possible in medicine poses a real risk to your mental health, as the recent pandemic has proven. State that you're aware of the risks that come with being an emergency physician and explain the methods you intend to use to support your mental and emotional health.

"Yes, I have been thinking of ways to prevent burnout. Something that has helped me stay grounded during medical school is doing daily meditations. I hope to continue this practice throughout residency."

"Emergency Medicine will definitely expose me to some traumatic and harrowing situations, however I believe that I have several tools which will equip me to handle those from an emotional and mental standpoint. First, I recognize that being trusted to take care of someone at their most vulnerable, while sometimes emotionally traumatic, is an extreme privilege that society has trusted us with. I think that bringing this perspective to each patient will allow me to process these emotionally traumatic events in a positive and constructive way. Additionally, throughout the years I have found ways to process stress and trauma in my personal life including exercise (cycling, yoga), meditation and self-reflection (focused breathing and journaling), and finding hobbies to enjoy with my loved ones to help me decompress (board game night is a favorite). It also helps that I have a dog who is excited to see me every day when I come home, no matter how difficult of a day I may have had."