Influential Factors on the Mental Well-Being of newly Qualified Medical Professional

Abstract

Qualitative research serves as a fundamental way of analysis in the field of mental health and well-being as it offers a well-rounded understanding of the concept or research question. It is an inclusive method that involves varied perspectives through unique data collection methods like questionnaires, interviews, etc. This paper provides a detailed analysis of the factors influencing the psychological health of newly qualified medical practitioners through qualitative analysis. Coming across multiple emotionally consuming instances on a daily basis can shift the mental stability and make them more prone to stress and anxiety. This can lead to decreased work efficiency and burnout in severe cases. Barriers like stigma and lack of resources are refraining doctors from seeking help at the right time. Hence, their personal and occupational culture is adversely affected. Transitioning from a newly qualified to an experienced practitioner requires immense hard work and tenacity. However due to compromised assistance many fail to ace their expertise in their respective specialties. Based on the qualitative data collected through interviews, numerous factors can be traced as contributing to burnout of newly qualified doctors. Few notable ones include long working hours, lack of facilities, errors committed during treatment, etc. The goal of this paper is to provide an authentic understanding and to add to the existing literature about the urgency to improve the work settings of doctors especially in a highly populous country like India where there is an elevated demand for patient care. Further, it also aims to remove the societal prejudice imposed over the medical fraternity.