Docs With Disabilities

Dr. Lisa Meeks
  • 4.9 (48)
  • EDUCATION
Docs With Disabilities

Join hosts Drs. Lisa Meeks, Peter Poullos and guest hosts as they take a deeper dive into the experiences of health care providers with disabilities through critical conversations with the doctors, researchers, administrators, faculty and policy makers that work to ensure medicine remains an equal opportunity profession.

  1. OCT 2

    Episode 106: Responding to Loss: Postvention and Support After a Suicide.

    Content Warning:  This content addresses mental health issues, including research and narratives on suicide. Please take care while engaging with it and only proceed if you feel safe doing so. If you, or someone you love, is having thoughts of suicide, please contact 988. Help is available. Interviewer Dr. Lisa Meeks Interviewees John Ruddell Jennifer Ruddell Roja (friend of Jack Ruddell) Dr. David Muller  Dr. Christine Moutier  Dr. Jessi Gold Narrator Dr. Joseph Murray  Transcript  Keywords: Suicide, Postvention, Prevention, Aftermath, Proactive, Support, Parents, Peers, Memorial, Staffing, Response from School, Medical School, Depression, Mental Health, Support, Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Self-compassion, Disabilities, Medical education, Crisis response, Contagion, Memorial service Description In this poignant fifth episode of the series on suicidality in medical training, John and Jennifer Ruddell share their heartbreaking journey after losing their son, Jack, to suicide during his medical education. The discussion focuses on how institutions can respond in the aftermath of such tragedies, with an emphasis on the AFSP Postvention Toolkit, which offers compassionate and actionable guidance for schools. The episode underscores the importance of fostering open conversations around mental health, implementing proactive institutional support, and creating environments that encourage students to seek help. Join the conversation by sharing this episode and participating in discussions to help protect and support future healthcare providers. Description of Series  DWDI Special Series: Suicidality in Medical Training dives into the critical conversations around mental health, well-being, support systems, and the intense pressures faced during medical training. Through the power of storytelling, the series intertwines these broader themes with the deeply personal story of Dr. Jack Ruddell, a promising medical student who tragically died by suicide. Jack’s journey—his strengths, struggles, and the complexities leading to his untimely death—forms the emotional core of this five-part series, giving voice to the loved ones often excluded from these conversations. Alongside Jack’s story, the series incorporates expert insights and data from the literature, offering a human perspective on burnout, depression, and suicide among medical trainees. With a commitment to improving mental health awareness and reducing the stigma around seeking help, the series presents a novel approach by centering personal narratives alongside expert analysis. It also explores actionable strategies for improving medical training environments and highlights the importance of institutional responses after a loss by suicide. Our mission is to reduce shame, encourage help-seeking among medical students struggling with depression, and ensure that every medical school is aware of the postvention resources offered by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). Experts for the Series  Christine Moutier, MD – Chief Medical Officer, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Jessi Gold, MD – Chief Wellness Officer, University of Tennessee System; Author of How Do You Feel? David Muller, MD – Director, Institute for Equity and Justice in Health Sciences Education; Dean Emeritus, Icahn School of Medicine at Mt. Sinai; Author of the NEJM essay, Kathryn Srijan Sen, MD, PhD – Director, Eisenberg Family Depression Center; PI of the Intern Health Study Justin Bullock, MD, MPH – Fellow, University of Washington; Author of the NEJM article, Suicide, Rewriting My Story Stuart Slavin, MD, MEd – Vice President for Well-Being, ACGME Episode Release Schedule: September 17: Episode 102 – Honoring Dr. Jack Ruddell: A Story of Joy, Compassion, and Mental Health in Medical Training. September 17: Episode 103 – Suicide and Suicidality in Medical Training: Understanding the Crisis and its Causes.  September 24: Episode 104 – Silent Struggles: Mental Health and Medical Education. September 26: Episode 105 – Repairing the System: How Do We Create Safe Environments? September 30: Episode 106 – Responding to Loss: Postvention and Support After a Suicide. Executive Producers: Lisa Meeks Rylee Betchkal John Ruddell Jennifer Ruddell Sound production: Jacob Feeman Mark Koha Next Day Podcast Consult Psychiatrist Joseph Murray, MD Resources:  24/7 Suicide & Crisis Hotline Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.    The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention https://afsp.org   Intern Health Study https://www.internhealthstudy.org https://www.srijan-sen-lab.com/intern-health-study   How are you? By Jessi Gold https://www.drjessigold.com/how-do-you-feel-book-by-jessi-gold-md/   Make the Difference: Preventing Medical Trainee Suicide https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=I9GRxF9qEBA&feature=youtu.be   Time to Talk About It: Physician Depression and Suicide” Video/Discussion Session for Interns, Residents, and Fellows https://www.mededportal.org/doi/10.15766/mep_2374-8265.10508   Action Collaborative on Clinician Well-Being and Resilience   National Academy of Medicine https://nam.edu/action-collaborative-on-clinician-well-being-and-resilience-network-organizations/

    1h 6m

  2. SEP 24

    Episode 105: Repairing the System: How Do We Create Safe Environments?

    Content Warning:  This content addresses mental health issues, including research and narratives on suicide. Please take care while engaging with it and only proceed if you feel safe doing so. If you, or someone you love, is having thoughts of suicide, please contact 988. Help is available.   Interviewer: Lisa Meeks Interviewees John Ruddell Jennifer Ruddell Roja (friend of Jack Ruddell) Dr. Stuart Slavin Dr. Christine Moutier Dr. Srijan Sen  Dr. David Muller  Dr. Justin Bullock Dr. Jessi Gold   Narrator Dr. Joseph Murray    Transcript   Keywords: Mental health, Medical training, Stress, Well-being, Jack Ruddell, Depression, Suicidality, Financial counseling, Career counseling, Transferable skills, Medical errors, Medical culture,  Opt-Out, Trust, Vulnerability, Open Discussions, Sharing Stories    Description In this episode, we address the urgent issue of suicidality in medical training, reflecting on the personal and systemic challenges that contribute to this crisis. Building on episodes 102, 103, and 104, we continue to explore the deep impact of these challenges.  We begin by examining the need to address both individual and systemic factors, emphasizing the importance of cultural shifts within medical environments and advocating for meaningful systems change. As the episode concludes, our experts highlight actionable steps medical schools can take to better support mental health, including fostering open dialogue, ensuring accessible resources, and creating a culture of vulnerability. In memory of Dr. Jack Rudell, we close with a piece of his music—a poignant reminder of the personal nature of this issue and the critical need to keep every trainee’s light shining. Description of Series  DWDI Special Series: Suicidality in Medical Training dives into the critical conversations around mental health, well-being, support systems, and the intense pressures faced during medical training. Through the power of storytelling, the series intertwines these broader themes with the deeply personal story of Dr. Jack Ruddell, a promising medical student who tragically died by suicide. Jack’s journey—his strengths, struggles, and the complexities leading to his untimely death—forms the emotional core of this five-part series, giving voice to the loved ones often excluded from these conversations. Alongside Jack’s story, the series incorporates expert insights and data from the literature, offering a human perspective on burnout, depression, and suicide among medical trainees. With a commitment to improving mental health awareness and reducing the stigma around seeking help, the series presents a novel approach by centering personal narratives alongside expert analysis. It also explores actionable strategies for improving medical training environments and highlights the importance of institutional responses after a loss by suicide. Our mission is to reduce shame, encourage help-seeking among medical students struggling with depression, and ensure that every medical school is aware of the postvention resources offered by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). Experts for the Series  Christine Moutier, MD – Chief Medical Officer, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Jessi Gold, MD – Chief Wellness Officer, University of Tennessee System; Author of How Do You Feel? David Muller, MD – Director, Institute for Equity and Justice in Health Sciences Education; Dean Emeritus, Icahn School of Medicine at Mt. Sinai; Author of the NEJM essay, Kathryn Srijan Sen, MD, PhD – Director, Eisenberg Family Depression Center; PI of the Intern Health Study Justin Bullock, MD, MPH – Fellow, University of Washington; Author of the NEJM article, Suicide, Rewriting My Story Stuart Slavin, MD, MEd – Vice President for Well-Being, ACGME Episode Release Schedule: September 17: Episode 102 – Honoring Dr. Jack Ruddell: A Story of Joy, Compassion, and Mental Health in Medical Training. September 17: Episode 103 – Suicide and Suicidality in Medical Training: Understanding the Crisis and its Causes.  September 24: Episode 104 – Silent Struggles: Mental Health and Medical Education. September 26: Episode 105 – Repairing the System: How Do We Create Safe Environments? September 30: Episode 106 – Responding to Loss: Postvention and Support After a Suicide. Executive Producers: Lisa Meeks Rylee Betchkal John Ruddell Jennifer Ruddell Sound production: Jacob Feeman Mark Koha Next Day Podcast Consult Psychiatrist Joseph Murray, MD   Resources:  24/7 Suicide & Crisis Hotline Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.    The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention https://afsp.org   Intern Health Study https://www.internhealthstudy.org https://www.srijan-sen-lab.com/intern-health-study   How are you? By Jessi Gold https://www.drjessigold.com/how-do-you-feel-book-by-jessi-gold-md/   Make the Difference: Preventing Medical Trainee Suicide https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=I9GRxF9qEBA&feature=youtu.be Time to Talk About It: Physician Depression and Suicide” Video/Discussion Session for Interns, Residents, and Fellows https://www.mededportal.org/doi/10.15766/mep_2374-8265.10508   Action Collaborative on Clinician Well-Being and Resilience National Academy of Medicine https://nam.edu/action-collaborative-on-clinician-well-being-and-resilience-network-organizations/   References:    Hogan, W. B., Del Re, A. M., & Daniels, A. H. (2021). A Voice, Singing: Reflections on Losing a Colleague to Suicide. Rhode Island Medical Journal, 104(6), 68-69.   Knaak, S., Mantler, E., & Szeto, A. (2017, March). Mental illness-related stigma in healthcare: Barriers to access and care and evidence-based solutions. In Healthcare management forum (Vol. 30, No. 2, pp. 111-116). Sage CA: Los Angeles, CA: SAGE Publications.   Malone, T. L., Zhao, Z., Liu, T. Y., Song, P. X., Sen, S., & Scott, L. J. (2021). Prediction of suicidal ideation risk in a prospective cohort study of medical interns. PLoS One, 16(12), e0260620.   Meeks, L. M., Cleary, J., Horwitz, A., Pereira-Lima, K., Zhao, Z., Fang, Y., & Sen, S. (2022). Analysis of depressive symptoms and perceived impairment among physicians across intern year. JAMA Network Open, 5(1), e2144919-e2144919.   Slavin, S. J., & Chibnall, J. T. (2016). Finding the why, changing the how: improving the mental health of medical students, residents, and physicians. Academic Medicine, 91(9), 1194-1196. Tandon MD, H. K., Kratochvil, M. D., Taylor, J., Keiser, M. S., LIMHP, K. L., Kent BS, N. J., ... & Gold, J. P. (2024). UNMC Quick Checks: An “Opt-Out” Model for Health Profession Student Appointments with Mental Health Counseling Services. Innovations in Health Sciences Education Journal, 2(1), 2.

    57 min

  3. SEP 19

    Episode 104: Silent Struggles – Mental Health and Medical Education

    Content Warning:  This content addresses mental health issues, including research and narratives on suicide. Please take care while engaging with it and only proceed if you feel safe doing so. If you, or someone you love, is having thoughts of suicide, please contact 988. Help is available.   Episode 104: Silent Struggles – Mental Health and Medical Education Interviewer Lisa Meeks   Interviewees John Ruddell Jennifer Ruddell Roja (friend of Jack Ruddell) Dr. David Muller  Dr. Justin Bullock Dr. Jessi Gold   Narrator Dr. Joseph Murray    Transcript Keywords: Mental health, Medical training, Stress, Well-being, Competitive environments, Performance, Self-care, High-stakes exams, Residency match, Learners with disabilities, Jack Ruddell, Depression, Suicidality, Dr. Jessi Gold, Dr. Justin Bullock, Dr. David Muller, Imposter syndrome, Research, Publications, Fitness for duty, COVID pandemic, Identity, Physician identity, Self-harm, Vulnerability, Stigma, USMLE Step 1, Dr. Catherine Lapidus, Docs with Disabilities  Description In this deeply impactful third episode of our series on mental health and suicide in medical training, we delve into the unique pressures and challenges that medical students face including high stakes exams, aggressions in training, lack of safety, and fear of help seeking. This episode is a continuation of our exploration into how the demanding environment of medical education can contribute to mental health struggles, including depression and suicidality. Description of Series  DWDI Special Series: Suicidality in Medical Training dives into the critical conversations around mental health, well-being, support systems, and the intense pressures faced during medical training. Through the power of storytelling, the series intertwines these broader themes with the deeply personal story of Dr. Jack Ruddell, a promising medical student who tragically died by suicide. Jack’s journey—his strengths, struggles, and the complexities leading to his untimely death—forms the emotional core of this five-part series, giving voice to the loved ones often excluded from these conversations. Alongside Jack’s story, the series incorporates expert insights and data from the literature, offering a human perspective on burnout, depression, and suicide among medical trainees. With a commitment to improving mental health awareness and reducing the stigma around seeking help, the series presents a novel approach by centering personal narratives alongside expert analysis. It also explores actionable strategies for improving medical training environments and highlights the importance of institutional responses after a loss by suicide. Our mission is to reduce shame, encourage help-seeking among medical students struggling with depression, and ensure that every medical school is aware of the postvention resources offered by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). Experts for the Series  Christine Moutier, MD – Chief Medical Officer, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Jessi Gold, MD – Chief Wellness Officer, University of Tennessee System; Author of How Do You Feel? David Muller, MD – Director, Institute for Equity and Justice in Health Sciences Education; Dean Emeritus, Icahn School of Medicine at Mt. Sinai; Author of the NEJM essay, Kathryn Srijan Sen, MD, PhD – Director, Eisenberg Family Depression Center; PI of the Intern Health Study Justin Bullock, MD, MPH – Fellow, University of Washington; Author of the NEJM article, Suicide, Rewriting My Story Stuart Slavin, MD, MEd – Vice President for Well-Being, ACGME Episode Release Schedule: September 17: Episode 102 – Honoring Dr. Jack Ruddell: A Story of Joy, Compassion, and Mental Health in Medical Training. September 17: Episode 103 – Suicide and Suicidality in Medical Training: Understanding the Crisis and its Causes.  September 24: Episode 104 – Silent Struggles: Mental Health and Medical Education. September 26: Episode 105 – Repairing the System: How Do We Create Safe Environments? September 30: Episode 106 – Responding to Loss: Postvention and Support After a Suicide. Executive Producers: Lisa Meeks Rylee Betchkal John Ruddell Jennifer Ruddell Sound production: Jacob Feeman Mark Koha Next Day Podcast Consult Psychiatrist Joseph Murray, MD   Resources:  24/7 Suicide & Crisis Hotline Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.    The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention https://afsp.org   Intern Health Study https://www.internhealthstudy.org https://www.srijan-sen-lab.com/intern-health-study   How are you? By Jessi Gold https://www.drjessigold.com/how-do-you-feel-book-by-jessi-gold-md/   Make the Difference: Preventing Medical Trainee Suicide https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=I9GRxF9qEBA&feature=youtu.be Time to Talk About It: Physician Depression and Suicide” Video/Discussion Session for Interns, Residents, and Fellows https://www.mededportal.org/doi/10.15766/mep_2374-8265.10508   Action Collaborative on Clinician Well-Being and Resilience National Academy of Medicine https://nam.edu/action-collaborative-on-clinician-well-being-and-resilience-network-organizations/   References:  Lapedis CJ. Murky water. Annals of Internal Medicine. 2018 Sep 18;169(6):415-6.   Meeks, L. M., Case, B., Stergiopoulos, E., Evans, B. K., & Petersen, K. H. (2021). Structural barriers to student disability disclosure in US-allopathic medical schools. Journal of Medical Education and Curricular Development, 8, 23821205211018696.   Mirza, A. A., Baig, M., Beyari, G. M., Halawani, M. A., & Mirza, A. A. (2021). Depression and anxiety among medical students: a brief overview. Advances in Medical Education and Practice, 393-398.   Rotenstein, L. S., Ramos, M. A., Torre, M., Segal, J. B., Peluso, M. J., Guille, C., ... & Mata, D. A. (2016). Prevalence of depression, depressive symptoms, and suicidal ideation among medical students: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Jama, 316(21), 2214-2236.

    59 min

  4. SEP 17

    Episode 103: Suicidality in Medical Training: Understanding the Crisis and its Causes.

    Content Warning:  This content addresses mental health issues, including research and narratives on suicide. Please take care while engaging with it and only proceed if you feel safe doing so. If you, or someone you love, is having thoughts of suicide, please contact 988. Help is available.   Episode 103: Suicidality in Medical Training: Understanding the Crisis and its Causes.   Interviewer Lisa Meeks   Interviewees John Ruddell Jennifer Ruddell Roja (friend of Jack Ruddell) Dr. Christine Moutier  Dr. Srijan Sen Dr. Justin Bullock Dr. Jessi Gold   Narrator Dr. Joseph Murray    Transcript   Keywords: Suicide, Death, Mental health, Jack Ruddell, Medical training, Depression, Suicidality, Burnout, Anxiety, Medical trainees, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Tourette's, Disabilities, Medical education, Medical school, Discrimination, Academic pressure, Clinical practice, Imposter syndrome, Perfectionism, Shame, Mental disability, Learning challenges, Accommodations, High-stakes testing, Inclusivity, Stigma   Description In the second episode of our series on medical training and suicide, we explore the mental health crisis through the story of Jack Ruddell, a medical student who died by suicide. The episode delves into the pressures, stigmas, and barriers that prevent trainees from seeking help, combining expert insights with personal narratives. We also hear from Jack’s partner and parents, who stress the need for systemic change and de-stigmatization of mental health struggles in medical education.    Description of Series  DWDI Special Series: Suicidality in Medical Training dives into the critical conversations around mental health, well-being, support systems, and the intense pressures faced during medical training. Through the power of storytelling, the series intertwines these broader themes with the deeply personal story of Dr. Jack Ruddell, a promising medical student who tragically died by suicide. Jack’s journey—his strengths, struggles, and the complexities leading to his untimely death—forms the emotional core of this five-part series, giving voice to the loved ones often excluded from these conversations. Alongside Jack’s story, the series incorporates expert insights and data from the literature, offering a human perspective on burnout, depression, and suicide among medical trainees. With a commitment to improving mental health awareness and reducing the stigma around seeking help, the series presents a novel approach by centering personal narratives alongside expert analysis. It also explores actionable strategies for improving medical training environments and highlights the importance of institutional responses after a loss by suicide. Our mission is to reduce shame, encourage help-seeking among medical students struggling with depression, and ensure that every medical school is aware of the postvention resources offered by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). Experts for the Series  Christine Moutier, MD – Chief Medical Officer, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Jessi Gold, MD – Chief Wellness Officer, University of Tennessee System; Author of How Do You Feel? David Muller, MD – Director, Institute for Equity and Justice in Health Sciences Education; Dean Emeritus, Icahn School of Medicine at Mt. Sinai; Author of the NEJM essay, Kathryn Srijan Sen, MD, PhD – Director, Eisenberg Family Depression Center; PI of the Intern Health Study Justin Bullock, MD, MPH – Fellow, University of Washington; Author of the NEJM article, Suicide, Rewriting My Story Stuart Slavin, MD, MEd – Vice President for Well-Being, ACGME Episode Release Schedule: September 17: Episode 102 – Honoring Dr. Jack Ruddell: A Story of Joy, Compassion, and Mental Health in Medical Training. September 17: Episode 103 – Suicidality in Medical Training: Understanding the Crisis and its Causes.  September 24: Episode 104 – Silent Struggles: Mental Health and Medical Education. September 26: Episode 105 – Repairing the System: How Do We Create Safe Environments? September 30: Episode 106 – Responding to Loss: Postvention and Support After a Suicide. Executive Producers: Lisa Meeks Rylee Betchkal John Ruddell Jennifer Ruddell Sound production: Jacob Feeman Mark Koha Next Day Podcast Consult Psychiatrist Joseph Murray, MD Resources:    24/7 Suicide & Crisis Hotline Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.    The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention https://afsp.org   Intern Health Study https://www.internhealthstudy.org https://www.srijan-sen-lab.com/intern-health-study   How are you? By Jessi Gold https://www.drjessigold.com/how-do-you-feel-book-by-jessi-gold-md/   Make the Difference: Preventing Medical Trainee Suicide https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=I9GRxF9qEBA&feature=youtu.be   Time to Talk About It: Physician Depression and Suicide: Video/Discussion Session for Interns, Residents and Fellows https://www.mededportal.org/doi/10.15766/mep_2374-8265.10508   Action Collaborative on Clinician Well-Being and Resilience National Academy of Medicine https://nam.edu/action-collaborative-on-clinician-well-being-and-resilience-network-organizations/ Suggested Readings   Baker, K., Warren, R., Abelson, J. L., & Sen, S. (2017). Physician mental health: depression and anxiety. Physician Mental Health and Well-Being: Research and Practice, 131-150.   Brådvik, L. (2018). Suicide risk and mental disorders. International journal of environmental research and public health, 15(9), 2028.   Bullock, J. L. (2020). Suicide—rewriting my story. New England Journal of Medicine, 382(13), 1196-1197.   Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Web-based Injury Statistics Query and Reporting System (WISQARS) Fatal Injury Reports. https://webappa.cdc.gov/sasweb/ncipc/mortrate.html   Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Web-based Injury Statistics Query and Reporting System (WISQARS) Fatal Injury Reports. https://webappa.cdc.gov/sasweb/ncipc/mortrate.html   Goldman, M. L., Shah, R. N., & Bernstein, C. A. (2015). Depression and suicide among physician trainees: recommendations for a national response. JAMA psychiatry, 72(5), 411-412.   Halperin, S. J., Henderson, M. N., Prenner, S., & Grauer, J. N. (2021). Prevalence of anxiety and depression among medical students during the Covid-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional study. Journal of medical education and curricular development, 8, 2382120521991150.   Hampton, T. (2005). Experts address risk of physician suicide. Jama, 294(10), 1189-1191.   Malone, T. L., Zhao, Z., Liu, T. Y., Song, P. X., Sen, S., & Scott, L. J. (2021). Prediction of suicidal ideation risk in a prospective cohort study of medical interns. PLoS One, 16(12), e0260620.   Rotenstein, L. S., Ramos, M. A., Torre, M., Segal, J. B., Peluso, M. J., Guille, C., ... & Mata, D. A. (2016). Prevalence of depression, depressive symptoms, and suicidal ideation among medical students: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Jama, 316(21), 2214-2236.   Schernhammer, E. S., & Colditz, G. A. (2004). Suicide rates among physicians: a quantitative and gender assessment (meta-analysis). American Journal of Psychiatry, 161(12), 2295-2302.   U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.). Major depression. National Institute of Mental Health. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/major-depression

    43 min

  5. SEP 17

    Episodes 102: Honoring Dr. Jack Ruddell: A Story of Joy, Compassion, and Mental Health in Medical Training

    Warning:  This content addresses mental health issues, including research and narratives on suicide. Please take care while engaging with it and only proceed if you feel safe doing so. If you, or someone you love, is having thoughts of suicide, please contact 988. Help is available. Interviewer Lisa Meeks   Interviewees John Ruddell Jennifer Ruddell Roja (friend of Jack Ruddell) Dr. Christine Moutier  Dr. Jessi Gold   Narrator Dr. Joseph Murray    Description In this deeply moving episode, host Lisa Meeks introduces a special series dedicated to exploring the mental health crisis among medical trainees, with a focus on the tragic story of Dr. Jack Ruddell. Joined by Jack's parents, John and Jennifer Ruddell, and his close friend Roja, we delve into Jack's life, his struggles with depression and anxiety, and the immense pressures faced by medical students. Dr. Joseph Murray, a psychiatrist at Weill Cornell Medical College, provides expert insights into the high rates of burnout, depression, and suicide in the medical field. We also hear from Dr. Christine Moutier, Chief Medical Officer of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, and Dr. Jessie Gold, a respected psychiatrist and author, who discuss the unique challenges and cultural issues within medical training that contribute to mental health struggles. This episode aims to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues, encourage medical learners to seek help, and advocate for systemic changes in medical education to foster a more supportive and compassionate environment. Description of Series  DWDI Special Series: Suicidality in Medical Training dives into the critical conversations around mental health, well-being, support systems, and the intense pressures faced during medical training. Through the power of storytelling, the series intertwines these broader themes with the deeply personal story of Dr. Jack Ruddell, a promising medical student who died by suicide. Jack’s journey—his strengths, struggles, and the complexities leading to his untimely death—forms the emotional core of this five-part series, giving voice to the loved ones often excluded from these conversations. Alongside Jack’s story, the series incorporates expert insights and data from the literature, offering a human perspective on burnout, depression, and suicide among medical trainees. With a commitment to improving mental health awareness and reducing the stigma around seeking help, the series presents a novel approach by centering personal narratives alongside expert analysis. It also explores actionable strategies for improving medical training environments and highlights the importance of institutional responses after a loss by suicide. Our mission is to reduce shame, encourage help-seeking among medical students struggling with depression, and ensure that every medical school is aware of the postvention resources offered by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). Experts for the Series  Christine Moutier, MD – Chief Medical Officer, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Jessi Gold, MD – Chief Wellness Officer, University of Tennessee System; Author of How Do You Feel? David Muller, MD – Director, Institute for Equity and Justice in Health Sciences Education; Dean Emeritus, Icahn School of Medicine at Mt. Sinai; Author of the NEJM essay, Kathryn Srijan Sen, MD, PhD – Director, Eisenberg Family Depression Center; PI of the Intern Health Study Justin Bullock, MD, MPH – Fellow, University of Washington; Author of the NEJM article, Suicide, Rewriting My Story Stuart Slavin, MD, MEd – Vice President for Well-Being, ACGME   Executive Producers: Lisa Meeks Rylee Betchkal John Ruddell Jennifer Ruddell Sound production: Jacob Feeman Mark Koha Next Day Podcast Consult Psychiatrist Joseph Murray, MD Episode Release Schedule: September 17: Episode 102 – Honoring Dr. Jack Ruddell: A Story of Joy, Compassion, and Mental Health in Medical Training. September 17: Episode 103 – Suicide and Suicidality in Medical Training: Understanding the Crisis and its Causes.  September 24: Episode 104 – Silent Struggles: Mental Health and Medical Education. September 26: Episode 105 – Repairing the System: How Do We Create Safe Environments? September 30: Episode 106 – Responding to Loss: Postvention and Support After a Suicide. Transcript Keywords: Suicide, Death, Mental health, Jack Ruddell, Medical training, Depression, Suicidality, Burnout, Anxiety, Medical trainees, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Tourette's, Disabilities, Medical education, Medical school, Discrimination, Academic pressure, Clinical practice, Imposter syndrome, Perfectionism, Shame, Mental disability, Learning challenges, Accommodations, High-stakes testing, Inclusivity, Stigma   Resources:  24/7 Suicide & Crisis Hotline, call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org. How are you? By Jessi Gold  National Office for Suicide Prevention: Language and suicide The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention   References    Johnson KM, Slavin SJ, Takahashi TA. Excellent vs Excessive: Helping Trainees Balance Performance and Perfectionism. J Grad Med Educ. 2023 Aug;15(4):424-427. doi: 10.4300/JGME-D-23-00003.1. PMID: 37637342; PMCID: PMC10449346.   Bynum WE 4th, W Teunissen P, Varpio L. In the "Shadow of Shame": A Phenomenological Exploration of the Nature of Shame Experiences in Medical Students. Acad Med. 2021 Nov 1;96(11S):S23-S30. doi: 10.1097/ACM.0000000000004261. PMID: 34348391.   Jain, Neera R. PhD, MS1; Stergiopoulos, Erene MD, MA2; Addams, Amy3; Moreland, Christopher J. MD, MPH4; Meeks, Lisa M. PhD, MA5. “We Need a Seismic Shift”: Disabled Student Perspectives on Disability Inclusion in U.S. Medical Education. Academic Medicine ():10.1097/ACM.0000000000005842, August 8, 2024. | DOI: 10.1097/ACM.0000000000005842   Meeks LM, Jain NR.  Accessibility, Inclusion, and Action in Medical Education: Lived Experiences of Learners and Physicians with Disabilities. Washington, DC: Association of American Medical Colleges; 2018. Retrieved on September 14, 2024 from: https://store.aamc.org/accessibility-inclusion-and-action-in-medical-education-lived-experiences-of-learners-and-physicians-with-disabilities.html.   Meeks, L. M., Pereira‐Lima, K., Plegue, M., Jain, N. R., Stergiopoulos, E., Stauffer, C., ... & Moreland, C. J. (2023). Disability, program access, empathy and burnout in US medical students: A national study. Medical education, 57(6), 523-534.   Recommended Readings:   Almutairi, H., Alsubaiei, A., Abduljawad, S., Alshatti, A., Fekih-Romdhane, F., Husni, M., & Jahrami, H. (2022). Prevalence of burnout in medical students: A systematic review and meta-analysis. International Journal of Social Psychiatry, 68(6), 1157-1170.   Enns MW & Cox B. (2002) The Nature and Assessment of Perfectionism: A Critical Analysis. In: Flett GL, Hewitt PL, eds. Perfectionism: Theory, Research, and Treatment. American Psychological Association, 33-62.   Goldman, M. L., Shah, R. N., & Bernstein, C. A. (2015). Depression and suicide among physician trainees: recommendations for a national response. JAMA psychiatry, 72(5), 411-412.   Johnson, K. M., Slavin, S. J., & Takahashi, T. A. (2023). Excellent vs excessive: helping trainees balance performance and perfectionism. Journal of Graduate Medical Education, 15(4), 424-427.   Meeks, L. M., Conrad, S. S., Nouri, Z., Moreland, C. J., Hu, X., & Dill, M. J. (2022). Patient And Coworker Mistreatment Of Physicians With Disabilities: Study examines mistreatment of physicians with disabilities. Health Affairs, 41(10), 1396-1402.   Mirza, A. A., Baig, M., Beyari, G. M., Halawani, M. A., & Mirza, A. A. (2021). Depression and anxiety among medical students: a brief overview. Advances in Medical Education and Practice, 393-398.   Pereira-Lima, K., Meeks, L. M., Ross, K. E., Marcelin, J. R., Smeltz, L., Frank, E., & Sen, S. (2023). Barriers to disclosure of disability and request for accommodations among first-year resident physicians in the US. JAMA Network Open, 6(5), e239981-e239981.    Meeks LM, Ramsey J, Lyons M, Spencer AL, Lee WW. Wellness and work: mixed messages in residency training. J Gen Intern Med. 2019;34(7):1352-1355. PMID: 30924087   Meeks LM, Stergiopoulos E, Petersen KH. Institutional Accountability for Students With Disabilities: A Call for Liaison Committee on Medical Education Action. Acad Med. 2021 Oct. PMID: 34670236

    52 min
  6. Episode 101: Innovation for Disability Inclusion in Dentistry

    SEP 4

    Episode 101: Innovation for Disability Inclusion in Dentistry

    Interviewer: Dr. Lisa Meeks Interviewees:  Dr. Sophia Kahn: Associate Professor and Director of Student Affairs at CU Anschutz School of Dental Medicine. Dr. Rick Mediavilla: Associate Dean of Student Affairs and Admissions at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine. Dr. Derrick Bisnett: Oral Maxillofacial Radiologist and CU Anschutz alumnus. Description: In Episode 101, we explore the inspiring journey of Dr. Derek Bisnett, an oral and maxillofacial radiologist who graduated from the CU Anschutz School of Dental Medicine. Dr. Bisnett, who uses a wheelchair, shares his unique experiences navigating dental school and the healthcare profession as a person with a disability, offering valuable insights into the challenges and triumphs along the way. Joining us are Dr. Sophia Kahn, Associate Professor and Director of Student Affairs at CU Anschutz, and Rick Mediavilla, Dean of Student Affairs and Admissions at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine. Together, they provide an inside look at the admissions process and discuss the school’s commitment to inclusivity and accommodations for students with disabilities. We wrap up the episode by reflecting on the positive impact of Dr. Bisnett's journey on the CU Anschutz community and the dental profession at large. Dr. Kahn and Rick Medavia share their final thoughts on the importance of inclusivity and the lessons learned from working with Dr. Bisnett. Join us for this enlightening conversation that challenges assumptions, highlights resilience, and underscores the importance of inclusivity in dental education. Transcript available here: Transcript Bio's:  Dr. Mediavilla received his dental degree from the University of Colorado School of Dentistry and completed his General Practice Residency at the University of Colorado Hospital. Dr. Mediavilla is currently the Associate Dean for Admissions, Student and Alumni Affairs, in addition to being a Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Restorative Dentistry. Dr. Mediavilla maintains membership in: the American Dental Association, the Colorado Dental Association, the American Dental Education Association, Omicron Kappa Upsilon, the Pierre Fauchard Academy, and is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry.   Keywords: Wheelchair, Dental Education, DocsWithDisabilities, Accommodations, Disability Inclusion, Journal of Dental Education, Oral Maxillofacial Radiologist, Disability, Dental School, UC Anschutz Produced by: Dr. Lisa Meeks  Digital Media: Lisa Meeks  Listen to the full episode now and don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insightful conversations! Follow Us: Twitter: @DocsWith Instagram: @DocsWithDisabilities Resources: A number of resources were provided for this series, they are all listed in the transcript. Articles:  https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/jdd.13409 https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/jdd.13443

    41 min

  7. AUG 24

    Episode 100: A Conversation about Wellness, Disability, and Intersectionality

    Interviewer:  Lisa Meeks   Interviewees:  David J. Skorton, MD, President and CEO of the AAMC Amy Addams, Director of Student Affairs, Alignment and Holistic Review at AAMC Mytien Nguyen, Researcher and MD-PhD student at Yale   Description:   In this milestone episode, host Lisa Meeks interviews leaders from the AAMC and a medical student to tackle the critical issues of burnout, mental health, and disability inclusion in medical education. The conversation provides an overview on  the current state of burnout and well-being among medical students, residents, and fellows, while also highlighting the AAMC's efforts to address these challenges through targeted initiatives and collaborations.    The interviewees stress the importance of supporting the well-being of traditionally underrepresented and marginalized groups in medicine, including individuals with disabilities. The episode further explores strategies for improving program access and fostering inclusive environments for disabled students, with a particular focus on the impact of intersectionality on medical student well-being, informed by a pivotal study on burnout at the intersection of race and disability. This episode is essential listening for anyone committed to the future of medical education and the well-being of its community. Don’t miss this special celebration of 100 episodes!   Transcript Keywords: AAMC, URiM, Disability, Accommodations, Policy, Intersectionality, David J Skorton, DocsWithDisabilities, Medical Students, Wellbeing, Depression, Burnout Bios:  David J. Skorton, MD President and CEO, Association of American Medical Colleges David Skorton, MD, is president and CEO of the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), which represents the nation’s medical schools, teaching hospitals and health systems, and academic societies. He began his leadership of the AAMC in July 2019 after a distinguished career in government, higher education, and medicine. Previously, Dr. Skorton served as the 13th secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, where he oversaw 19 museums, 21 libraries, the National Zoo, numerous research centers, and education programs. Prior to that, he served as president of two universities: Cornell University (2006 to 2015) and the University of Iowa (2003 to 2006), where he also served on the faculty for 26 years and specialized in the treatment of adolescents and adults with congenital heart disease. A pioneer of cardiac imaging and computer processing techniques, he also was co-director and co-founder of the University of Iowa Adolescent and Adult Congenital Heart Disease Clinic. A distinguished professor at Georgetown University, Dr. Skorton is an elected member of the National Academy of Medicine, the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, and the American Philosophical Society, as well as a lifetime member of the Council on Foreign Relations and a fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. Dr. Skorton earned his BA and MD degrees from Northwestern University. He completed his medical residency and fellowship in cardiology and was chief medical resident at the University of California, Los Angeles.   Amy Addams Director, Student Affairs Alignment and Holistic Review; AAMC Ms. Addams is a diversity, equity, and inclusion expert, change management professional, researcher, and author. She has robust experience in both higher education and in the not-for-profit space. Her work focuses on creating and sustaining equitable and inclusive systems, cultures, policies, and processes in the fields of medical education and community health. At the AAMC, she leads the holistic review work across the continuum from pre-med preparation and admissions through residency recruitment and selection as well as emerging work on disability inclusion. For the Prevention Research Center on Nutrition and Physical Activity at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health (HPRC), she engaged Boston-area middle schools and community members to make lasting changes in nutrition and physical activity. Her credits as an author include, the Roadmap to Diversity: Integrating Holistic Review Practices into Medical School Admission Processes. Co-author of Best Practices for Conducting Residency Program Interviews and Holistic Review in Medical School Admissions and Selection: A Strategic, Mission-Driven Response to Shifting Societal Needs, and several peer reviewed articles on the prevalence and experiences of medical students with disabilities. Developmental editor for Accessibility, Inclusion, and Action in Medical Education: Lived Experiences of Learners and Physicians with Disabilities and Roadmap to Excellence: Key Concepts for Evaluating the Impact of Medical School Holistic Admissions. Developmental editor, key contributor, and facilitator of the Holistic Review in Admissions and Selection workshops.    Mytien Nguyen MD/PhD student at the Yale School of Medicine.  Mytien earned her undergraduate and master degree from Cornell University, studying biology and bioengineer. Her work centers on eliminating barriers for students from marginalized backgrounds in pursuing a career in medicine. An advocate for health equity, she is a co-founder of the National First Gen & Low-Income Medicine Association. Produced by: Dr. Lisa Meeks  Audio editor: Jacob Feeman Digital Media: Katie Sullivan and Lisa Meeks  Listen to the full episode now and don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insightful conversations! Follow Us: Twitter: @DocsWith Instagram: @DocsWithDisabilities Resources: A number of resources were provided for this series, they are all listed in the transcript.

    59 min

  8. AUG 18

    Episode 99: Navigating Medical Training: Fireside Chat on Accommodation Disparities Among Medical Trainees with Non-Apparent Disabilities

    Interviewees: Dr. Jo Hartland and Dr. Megan Brown Interviewer: Lisa Meeks Description: In this compelling episode of the Docs with Disabilities podcast, host Lisa Meeks explores the unique challenges and privileges faced by medical professionals with non-apparent disabilities. Recorded at the 2024 Annual Scholarship Meeting in Warwick, UK, this episode features insightful conversations with Dr. Megan Brown and Dr. Joe Heartland. Key Topics Discussed: Navigating disclosure and accommodation requests for non-apparent disabilities Structural and climate-related barriers in medical training The privilege and peril of having a non-apparent disability Personal experiences with masking and unmasking disabilities The impact of mental health-related disabilities in the medical field The culture of medicine and its disconnect with self-care Trigger Warning: Around three-quarters into the episode, the topic of suicidality is discussed in a direct manner. If this topic is triggering for you, we suggest forgoing this episode. Your health is our priority. Keywords: Non-Apparent Disability, Autoimmune Disorder, Autism, ADHD, Neurodiverse, Hip Surgery, Walking Stick, Cane, Scooter, Medical Training, Mental Health, Psychological Disability, UK, Accommodations.  Transcript Bios:  Dr Megan Brown (she/they) is a Senior Research Associate in Medical Education at Newcastle University, in the School of Medicine, in the UK. She trained as a doctor, but decided to leave practice and has subsequently pursued medical education research. She is multiply disabled – she uses a walking stick, and is neurodivergent. Megan’s research has focused on issues relating to the clinical education workforce within the UK, and equality, diversity, and inclusion within this workforce across the spectrum of undergraduate to postgraduate experience. She is a published poet, and is passionate about creative methods of expression and research. Dr Jo Hartland (they/them) qualified from Cardiff University in 2013 and left NHS clinical work in 2018. They have worked at the University of Bristol Medical School since 2018, and are the current School Deputy Education Director for Student Equity Diversity and Inclusion. Their teaching focuses on the integration of marginalised people’s voices in healthcare curriculums, and empowering students to be agents of change in the face of health inequity. They sit on the executive board of the UK Medical Schools Council EDI Alliance, with a focus on LGBTQ+ inclusion and reasonable adjustments for disability. Their research interests lie in the intersection of professionalism and how this can act as a gatekeeping device for marginalised communities accessing healthcare careers. Outside of their university work Jo is a queer health activist and lead author of the GLADD UK Charter on So-Called LGBTQ+ ‘Conversion Therapy’. In 2022 they received the NHS England LGBTQ+ Health Advisor Award and Attitude magazine’s 2023 Pride Award.   Produced by: Dr. Lisa Meeks  Audio editor: Jacob Feeman Digital Media: Katie Sullivan and Lisa Meeks  Listen to the full episode now and don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insightful conversations! Follow Us: Twitter: @DocsWith Instagram: @DocsWithDisabilities Resources:  Disability Pride Month 2024 Special Virtual Issue: Medical Education  Association for the Study of Medical Education

    1h 7m
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4.9
out of 5
48 Ratings

About

Join hosts Drs. Lisa Meeks, Peter Poullos and guest hosts as they take a deeper dive into the experiences of health care providers with disabilities through critical conversations with the doctors, researchers, administrators, faculty and policy makers that work to ensure medicine remains an equal opportunity profession.

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Lisa Meeks
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2024
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    Copyright © 2019 Lisa Meeks
  • Show Website
    Docs With Disabilities

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