Embracing Vulnerability: Overcoming Impostor Syndrome in Medical Training

By being honest and vulnerable, we both grew from the experience, learning that effective teamwork involves both challenging and supporting others in a way that fosters confidence and a sense of belonging. Studies have identified how reinforcing maladaptive perfectionism increases impostor syndrome among trainees, translating to poorer mental health and increased risk of suicide [2]. Managing self-doubt is particularly important for mental health professionals, among whom impostor syndrome has been linked to higher rates of burnout and compassion fatigue [4]. Clark, P; Holden, C; Russell, M; Downs, H. The impostor phenomenon in mental health professionals: relationships among compassion fatigue, burnout, and compassion satisfaction.