Becoming a Doctor Starts With Taking Care of Yourself
While many believe that medical studies can be all-consuming, it is possible to lead a balanced and fulfilling life during this time. Here are a few simple tips and reminders to help you maintain balance in the demanding world of medicine.
16 December 2025
Medical school, with its long hours, endless exams and constant pressure, can be intense. While learning to save lives is important, we have also learnt that you cannot be an effective healer if you do not prioritise your own health. That is why, amidst the hustle and bustle of medical school, we want to make sure you are equipped not only with the skills to save lives but also to lead balanced, fulfilling lives.
First up...
Be Kind to Yourself
When you are in medical school, it can feel like there is always one more thing to learn, one more task to check off and endless pressure to do everything perfectly. It may even seem like there just aren’t enough hours in the day. But guess what? That is totally okay. Take breaks. You are human, not a robot, so give yourself permission to pause and recharge. Do not forget to celebrate the small wins, even if it is surviving a long study session or getting through a tough day. Every little victory counts.
Next…
Take Care of Your Body
You cannot pour from an empty cup. To be at your best, you need to take care of yourself. While it may be tempting to scrimp on meals or skip the gym to squeeze in a few extra hours of study, do not fall into that trap. Fuel your body and brain with proper exercise, nutrition and rest. It will make a huge difference in how energised and focused you feel when it is time to hit the books. Make sure you get those workouts in, eat well and get enough sleep so you are ready for whatever the day or night throws at you.
If you think you need help, just reach out to us at any time…
Get the Support You Need
At NUMed, we understand that managing stress and maintaining mental well-being is not always easy. That is why we offer a wide range of counselling and support services. Whether you are feeling overwhelmed by the workload or simply need someone to talk to, we have dedicated professionals and peer support networks ready to help. We want you to find the balance you need to thrive, not just survive.
Remember that you are not alone…
Find Your Tribe, Expand Your Circle
Being a medical student may be time-consuming, but that does not mean you have to lose touch with your passions. NUMed encourages you to explore extracurricular activities, from sports teams to clubs, arts and more. These are great opportunities to connect with like-minded people, expand your circle of friends and enjoy something you love. After all, finding people who share your interests makes medical school a lot more enjoyable.
Also surround yourself with serenity…
Enjoy Cosy Corners
Friends are great, but sometimes you just need a break. NUMed is purposefully designed with lush, landscaped greenery that creates a serene atmosphere, making it easy to unwind. Cosy nooks are scattered across campus, perfect for hanging out, chatting with friends or enjoying quiet time alone. These spots help you recharge so you can return to your studies feeling refreshed and ready to go.
Or venture outside…
Explore Beyond Campus
Medical school is not all textbooks and lectures. While NUMed has a beautiful purpose-built campus, you are encouraged to step out and explore the surrounding area. Whether it is visiting the nearby sports stadium to channel your athletic side or grabbing a bite at one of the many eateries nearby, because food is the ultimate stress-buster, there is always something to do.
At NUMed, we believe that living a balanced life is essential to becoming a doctor who not only saves lives but also understands the importance of well-being. Remember, to save lives, you have to live yours too. We are here to support you every step of the way.