Health and wellbeing support for GPs in Training

Health and wellbeing support for GPs in Training

RACGP Wellbeing Hub > Resources hub – GPs in Training > Health and wellbeing support

Support and self-care strategies to help you thrive

General practice training is an exciting and rewarding step in your medical career. Like any new role, it can bring challenges, and these may affect your health and wellbeing. Remember, you are not alone. Wide-ranging supports are available both within and outside the RACGP to help you navigate this transition and thrive in your new specialty.  

As a registrar, it is essential to have your own GP. The RACGP recommends that all registrars have an independent GP outside of your workplace who can provide objective, confidential medical care. A dedicated GP knows your history and understands the pressures of the job. They can offer support, guidance, and a listening ear through any physical or mental health challenge.  

If you are in an isolated area or having difficulty finding a GP, contact the Doctors’ Health Line (1800 006 888) for assistance.

 

Doctors' health services 

Each state and territory offers its own independent, free and confidential health advisory service, staffed with doctors trained in doctors’ health.   

Call the Doctors' Health Line (1800 006 888) to be connected to your local service.  

Smoking, alcohol & substance support 
 

RACGP GP Support Program

A free confidential counselling service offered to all RACGP members. Support is offered via face-to-face or telephone counselling. Wellbeing resources and self-help tools are also available. 

DRS4DRS

A national support service for medical professionals. It offers 24/7 telehealth counselling and access to independent, free and confidential health advice from doctors with expertise in doctors’ health.

TEN – The Essentials Network

A mental health hub designed by health professionals for health professionals. Supports include:

  • Ten Clinic: free confidential telehealth counselling (five sessions) Note: TEN is not funded by Medicare. Your interactions with the service will not be recorded on “My Health Record” 
  • Hand n Hand Peer Support: free confidential peer support and mentoring for health professionals 
  • Mental health check up: free digital mental health assessment and report 
  • Tools and resources: evidence-based tools to improve wellbeing including relaxation techniques and cognitive behaviour therapy strategies. 

Other support services

 
  • Maintain a healthy, balanced diet; bring nutritious meals to work and keep a water bottle and supply of healthy snacks in your office 
  • Schedule regular physical activity and find opportunities for incidental exercise: walk while making calls at lunch time, take the stairs instead of the lift, and stretch between consults 
  • Avoid taking work home, where possible and limit the times, you log on remotely 
  • Schedule regular breaks and always have a holiday to look forward to 
  • Be realistic with time management and avoiding overcommitting 
  • Develop and maintain healthy therapeutic boundaries with patients 
  • Debrief with colleagues regularly 
  • Insist on a good work-life balance 
  • Practice good sleep habits 
  • Practice mindfulness 
  • Participate in activities that bring you personal joy 
  • Make your relationships a priority: schedule regular catch ups with family and friends 
  • Maintain connection with culture, country and community. 


Burnout is a well-recognised challenge in the caring professions. Registrars and early career Fellows are among the most vulnerable. Because of its prevalence, it’s important to be aware of burnout and to proactively prepare for it.  

Complete the BMA burnout questionnaire to identify whether you might be at risk of burnout. 

Am I burnt out?

Common features include exhaustion, cynicism, detachment and reduced efficacy. 

Common symptoms include trouble sleeping, constant fatigue, headaches, muscle tension, digestive issues, irritability, anxiety, low mood, loss of motivation, or feeling trapped, isolated, or emotionally numb. 

If you’re struggling with burnout, there are many strategies that can help: 


Strategies for when you’re struggling with:


Bush Support Services (Australia) (1800 805 391): a 24-hour telephone support line that provides free, anonymous telephone counselling service to Australian rural and remote area health professionals and their families. It is staffed by psychologists experienced in the rural and remote sector. 

Peer support from rural and remote GPs:  

 

If you experience a health challenge during training, speak with your medical educator, training coordinator, or program officer early. This allows us to identify how we can best support you.  

Flexible training options, including part-time hours and medical leave are available. Refer to your training program handbook, or contact your RACGP training team for more information. 

As a GP, it is essential to make your own health and wellbeing a priority. The RACGP is here to help you navigate challenges and thrive, both personally and professionally.