By Dr Fadh Yusof
Starting your intern year is a big transition. It is exciting, but it can also be intense. Feeling uncertain, overwhelmed or fatigued at times is completely normal. You are adjusting to new responsibilities, unpredictable shifts and steep learning curves. You are also shaping your professional identity alongside the new demands of working with senior clinicians, peers, nurses, allied health teams and patients.
The key is not to avoid these feelings but to know where to turn for support. You do not have to do this alone. Below are practical strategies and networks to help you start and stay strong.
Practical everyday habits for resilience
Schedule downtime: Treat breaks and rest as non-negotiable. Even 30 minutes away from screens can help reset your mind.
Reflect daily: Ask yourself, “What went well today?” or “What would I do differently next time?” These builds learning and self-compassion.
Peer check-ins: Connect with another intern or junior doctor you trust. A quick coffee or chat after a shift can normalise shared challenges and reduce isolation.
Set small weekly goals: Examples include “Walk for 20 minutes on a day off” or “Read an article on a procedure I found tricky.” Small wins foster momentum.
Manage boundaries: If asked to stay late or take on extra work when fatigued, pause and ask, “Is this safe for me and my patients?” It is okay to escalate or step back.
Keep your purpose in mind: Remember why you chose medicine. That sense of purpose can help you through tough days.
Support networks you can tap into
1. Confidential support for doctors’ mental health
Victorian Doctors' Health Program: A free, confidential service for doctors and medical students experiencing stress, mental health concerns or substance issues.
DRS4DRS: 24/7 confidential nationwide support service for doctors.
2. Peer support and workforce wellbeing
AMAVic's Peer Support Service: A confidential service run by AMA Victoria members keen to support doctors experiencing career challenges or life stress.
Hand-n-Hand Peer Support: A free, confidential peer support network led by health professionals with lived experience of mental health challenges.
3. Mentoring and career development
AMAVic Mentoring Program: A structured eight-month mentoring offered to AMA members for early career doctors, focusing on transition points and professional growth.
DR JuMP Mentoring Program: A free mentoring support for doctors (including interns) in rural and regional Victoria.
Final word
Being a good doctor doesn’t mean you never struggle. It means you recognise when you’re stretched, reach out when you need to and build habits that sustain you over the long term. The networks I’ve recommended will support you to be a resilient, able and effective intern doctor.
Here’s to your first year! May it be challenging but also rewarding, connected and full of growth. Stay well, stay curious and remember you are not alone.
Dr Fadhullah (Fadh) Yusof is a Paediatric Registrar at Monash Children’s Hospital.