Self-Compassion Training for Medical Students

This trial aims to test a self-compassion course for medical students to determine its effectiveness in reducing burnout and stress while enhancing empathy and emotional regulation. Participants will engage in a 6-week online course designed to foster self-compassion and then report their experiences and any changes in stress levels and emotional well-being. This trial suits first or second-year medical students at the University of Toronto who have not taken a similar mindfulness course in the past year. As an unphased trial, it offers a unique opportunity for students to explore personal growth and improve their well-being.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It seems unlikely, as the study focuses on a self-compassion course rather than a medical treatment.

Research shows that the Self-Compassion for Healthcare Communities course is generally well-received. In past studies, participants, including doctors, reported feeling less burned out and more self-compassionate after completing the program. One study found a significant drop in burnout levels, with statistically meaningful results. Another study noted notable increases in self-compassion and mindfulness among participants, both positive outcomes.

Researchers are excited about the Self-Compassion for Healthcare Communities course because it offers a fresh approach to supporting medical students' mental health. Unlike traditional methods that might focus on stress management or cognitive behavioral techniques, this course emphasizes building self-compassion through a structured, manualized online program. It aims to help students develop a kinder, more understanding relationship with themselves, which could lead to improved well-being and resilience in the demanding field of medicine. This innovative approach is particularly appealing because it can be easily accessed online and completed over six weeks, making it convenient for busy medical students.

Research has shown that the Self-Compassion for Healthcare Communities course, which participants in this trial will undergo, can help reduce burnout in medical professionals. In one study, doctors who participated in a similar program experienced a noticeable decrease in burnout. Another study found that participants became more mindful, felt more connected to others, and experienced less stress. Additionally, they showed more compassion for others and improved personal well-being, including being kinder to themselves. These findings suggest that this course might benefit medical students facing stress and burnout.¹⁶⁷⁸⁹