Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: A Guide for Medical Students

The BMA defines imposter syndrome as "the persistent inability to believe that one's success is deserved or has been legitimately achieved as a result of one's own efforts or skill", and it is a common struggle amongst medical students and practising physicians. Over 50% of medical students have reported experiencing imposter syndrome at some point at university and describe their feelings as undeserving and as though other people overestimate their abilities.

These feelings of inadequacy stem from several factors, including society's portrayal of doctors as "superheroes" capable of diagnosing and treating any condition. This image is further reinforced by the media portraying doctors as high-achieving individuals, thus creating unrealistic and unsustainable goals for students.  Adding to this, a medical career's academic drive and competitiveness – from pre-medical school application to post-medical school speciality training – can exacerbate these feelings of inadequacy. Students and doctors often place immense pressure on themselves to continually develop their skills and knowledge and strive to meet unattainable standards that fuel feelings of self-doubt.

Imposter syndrome can develop at any point during medical school and often follows individuals into their professional careers, making it a chronic challenge to combat. Therefore, it's crucial to be able to identify imposter syndrome and find ways to manage it, as it can contribute to burnout, strained personal relationships and poor mental health. 

Symptoms to look out for:

• Persistent self-doubt & feeling "not good enough"

• A sense of incompetence despite evidence of achievements

• Fear of failure

• Perfectionism & setting exceptionally high standards

• Undervaluing success

• Heightened anxiety & stress

• Burnout

Recognising these symptoms, the next step is acknowledging that imposter syndrome is typical and expected, particularly in high-pressure fields like medicine. Studies show these feelings can be mitigated through mentorship and peer support, which helps develop confidence and foster a sense of belonging. 

Connecting with peers of similar backgrounds, experiences, and interests can be particularly effective. Often, imposter syndrome can affect different people in different manners and at different intensities, but it is likely to impact similar people in similar ways. For instance, imposter syndrome can disproportionately impact women of ethnic minorities, where societal prejudices and discrimination may worsen feelings of inadequacy. To face this challenge, joining societies and associations designed to support women of colour can be empowering. Speaking with like-minded individuals creates a supportive community that battles the feeling of isolation and helps overcome feeling like an "imposter" who does not belong. 

Adding onto this, having the guidance of a mentor can provide valuable advice. Reaching out to the support systems that all medical schools have in place or a trusted superior can help individuals understand their feelings better and plan to move forward. 

Setting realistic goals is another means to face imposter syndrome. It is unlikely that anyone will ever feel 100% confident of achieving a goal, but that should not stop them from trying to reach it. Instead, practising and trying regardless can help build confidence, learn from mistakes and improve skills, leading to individuals feeling better about themselves. Apart from setting goals and striving towards completing them, it's equally important to celebrate successes no matter how small – reflecting on accomplishments can help change mindsets and overcome feelings of self-doubt. 

As the name suggests, Imposter syndrome thrives in isolated situations and, therefore, becomes weaker when shared and supported. Recognising its symptoms and actively taking steps towards managing it can promote better mental health, which will positively impact careers. Mind Mental Health is critical in offering resources, programmes and support systems to help combat this issue. And lastly, a piece of advice from a mentor: it's important to remember that "imposter syndrome is a reflection of your environment and not yourself”.