September is National Suicide Prevention Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about suicide prevention, remembering lost lives, acknowledging those who have experienced suicidal thoughts, and supporting individuals, families, and communities impacted by suicide.
Within the graduate medical education (GME) community, the pressures of long hours, high expectations, and the emotional weight of patient care can create unique challenges for residents, fellows, faculty members, and others. The ACGME remains committed to supporting mental health and well-being, recognizing that early intervention, open dialogue, and accessible resources are key to caring for those who care for others.
Providing residents and fellows with opportunities to access timely mental health care and tackling stigma are a vital part of a culture of well-being. Programs and institutions play a pivotal role in creating safe, supportive spaces where well-being is prioritized alongside clinical excellence.
In past years, the ACGME has shared a range of resources to help programs and individuals address mental health challenges. These include the Overcoming Barriers to Mental Health Care initiative, informed by a Northwestern University survey identifying time as the primary barrier to seeking help. The related Journal of Graduate Medical Education article and accompanying podcast with Dr. Greg Guldner offer strategies to address these barriers and encourage open discussion. The ACGME’s Well-Being Podcast Series, hosted by Dr. Stuart Slavin, has provided a platform for health care leaders and clinicians to share insights, discuss the stressors of training, and tell personal stories of resilience. Additional tools—such as the Depression in Physicians video module, Psychological First Aid handout, Mental Health and Well-Being During Transitions toolkit, and After a Suicide Toolkit—offer practical guidance for supporting mental health, responding to crises, and fostering a culture of care.
The ACGME encourages all members of the GME community to take practical steps to support their own well-being and that of their colleagues. This includes making time for self-care; checking in with peers; encouraging friends and colleagues to seek help early; and fostering an understanding and caring culture within GME. Leaders are encouraged to create time for individuals to access mental health resources and to model open, stigma-free conversations.
As we observe National Suicide Prevention Month, we urge you to explore these and other resources available, share them with your colleagues, and take time to check in on those you care about.
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, remember that help is available through the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
By working together to prioritize mental health, we can create a GME environment where everyone not only succeeds professionally, but thrives personally.