Neurodiversity and Mental Health of Trainee Doctors in Scotland

During my time in training, I have witnessed poor mental health including burnout and stress affecting my colleagues. I have read this so many times that it feels like a cliché to be repeating it. However, these issues continue to affect the professional and personal lives of doctors and their families. From experience, doctors are not always aware of the support services and networks available to them. 

I have also observed a growing number of colleagues being diagnosed with or thinking that they may have a neurodiverse condition. We know that those with neurodiverse conditions are more susceptible to experience other forms of mental health difficulties. 

NES will be sending out a short 10 minute survey for you to complete on my behalf, around the beginning of November. It would be much appreciated if you could complete this when it is circulated.

The results of this survey will enable me to drive service improvements that will support the psychological wellbeing of an increasingly diverse workforce in the NHS in Scotland that is currently working under immense pressure. 

I would also welcome any thoughts or feedback and can be contacted on priya.sharma@nhs.scot.