3 Things No One Is Talking About

 Leaving your home country and becoming a doctor in the U.K. is exciting. It’s a new life and a new working environment. As good as it seems, there are some downsides which all IMGs experience. Let’s find out what they are and what to do about them.

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Loneliness

A lot of new doctors feel lonely when they first arrive in the U.K.. Moving to a new country is difficult as you tend to lose contact with your friends and family. Setting up a new social circle in the country takes time and it is often difficult to find like-minded people.

What to do about it?

1. Don’t be shy and speak to more people. People in the U.K. are usually friendly.

2. Try to make friends with your colleagues . They are the ones you will spend most of your time with, in the hospital.

3. Work on your hobbies. You will find more people who have common interests as yours in this way.

4. Go to the gym. This will help you make new friends and will make you more fit. 

5. Read books (not only your textbooks, but read whatever you like)

6. U.K. is a beautiful country. Buy a car/use public transport, go outdoors and explore the country.

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Self-doubt and Loss of confidence

Working in a new healthcare system can be challenging. As everything is new, you sometimes tend to feel that you are inferior to others.

What to do about it?

1. Give it some time. As you become more experienced in the new system, you will find yourself gaining confidence.

2. Don’t be afraid to ask for help .If you do not know something, try to learn it from others.

3. Speak up if you feel depressed. There is a lot of help available around you. Contact your hospital’s occupational health department . There are few organisation linked below as well which might help you out.

Link to seek help

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Difficult colleagues

It is not every day but there are days when you meet colleagues (junior doctors, registrars or even consultants) who do not follow respectful code of conduct. Search behavior can come from other hospital staff or the management as well.

What to do about it?

1. Do not tolerate unethical behavior inside or outside of your workplace.
2. Speak to them personally and try to sort out if there are any problems.
3. Always escalate to the relevant personnel if any issues arise.

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