Breaking Free from the Medical Bubble: A Journey of Self-Discovery
A short story of an "anak ng Dyos" who quit in Post-Graduate Internship
This is a story shared with us by a wonderful person who used to be in the medical field but eventually went their way out of it. They wanted to remain anonymous so I am not publishing the name and used the pronouns ‘they’ and ‘their’ to hide the gender.
Growing up surrounded by a family of healthcare professionals, it seemed only natural for me to follow in their footsteps. Both my grandfather and grandmother were doctors, and my parents and other relatives also pursued careers in healthcare. The path ahead seemed clear – I was destined to become a doctor too.
However, life had other plans for me. From a young age, I struggled with mental health issues. Episodes of self-harm and suicidal thoughts cast a shadow over my high school years, despite attending a science-focused institution. Only during a psychology class in college, did I discover that my suicidal ideations were not normal.
In college, my parents filled out my college (Biology) applications, pencilling them first and I wrote on top of their writing using a ballpoint pen - the same way my siblings do it. Yet, I despised biology and detested the sciences, feeling trapped in a medical bubble.
It wasn't until I reached the college level that I realized there were countless opportunities beyond medicine. The mere thought of shifting out of my pre-med track filled me with uncertainty, but witnessing my older sister take that leap before me opened my eyes to the vast array of possibilities.
One time in my clerkship rotation in psychiatry, I took 4 sample pills that were in varying generic labels. I blacked out for two days, waking up in my friends' condo, and having missed class. It was a wake-up call that prompted me to seek help.
After enduring four months of internship as a post-graduate intern (PGI), I reached my breaking point and was diagnosed with bipolar disorder.
My journey to acceptance was not easy. I was in denial, despite being hospitalized three times for mental health issues. It was the keen observation of my internal medicine residents that led me to open up about my struggles, eventually leading to my first psychiatric appointment.
Upon quitting the medical track, I underwent a series of realizations:
There are countless professions beyond medicine where one can find fulfillment and financial stability.
If the universe signals that a path is not meant for you, it's best not to force it.
I learned to take ownership of my decisions, recognizing that while others can offer advice, the ultimate choice lies with me.
Self-imposed pressure is often more detrimental than external pressure.
Quitting is not a sign of weakness but of bravery, especially when a situation becomes too damaging to endure.
Breaking free from the medical bubble allowed me to take on a journey of self-discovery, where I learned to prioritize my mental health and pursue paths aligned with my true passions and values.
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