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Addressing Mental Health In The Medical School Setting Using A Peer Forum, Erica Stagliano, Christina Bascara, Bliss Rogers, Ruth Conboy, Denah Appelt

Research Day

Background: Medical students have a particularly higher incidence of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation compared to the general population. Consequently, there is a need to address students’ mental health as a component of professional development. At a medical school in the northeastern United States, we utilize a student-led, medical student-only forum that focuses on mental health topics and experiences. The intent is to educate and advocate for mental health acceptance and treatment through open discussion among peers. It is anticipated that this forum results in professional help-seeking behaviors and continued mental health discussions both inside and outside of the school …