Where textbooks end, the real challenges begin. Let’s discover the untold stories and struggles of MBBS interns they have to face.
The journey to becoming a doctor is long, rigorous, and often challenging. Once the classroom lessons and exams are over, the real test begins, which is the MBBS internship, where theoretical knowledge meets practical experience. It’s not as easy as it looks. It comes with long hours, emotional exhaustion, and numerous struggles. Although they are common during this crucial period. If you’re on the path to becoming a doctor, it’s important to know what these struggles are beforehand and how to tackle them effectively.
In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at the 7 major struggles of MBBS interns and provide insights on how to manage them. Understanding these challenges can prepare you mentally and emotionally for the demanding internship period ahead.
Working Hours
MBBS internships come with grueling shifts that can stretch for long hours, sometimes even overnight. Interns often work from early morning until late at night, sometimes even being called for emergency duties at odd hours. The workload can feel exhausting, especially when balancing multiple rotations, patient care, and paperwork.
How to Manage:
- Prioritize sleep and make sure to get rest whenever possible.
- Develop time management skills to juggle tasks efficiently.
- Take breaks when possible to avoid burnout and stay energized.
Emotional & Mental Exhaustion
Interns are often exposed to emotionally taxing situations, from dealing with critical patients to handling distressing family circumstances. The responsibility of life and death decisions, coupled with high-pressure environments, can lead to emotional exhaustion. It’s natural to feel overwhelmed by the gravity of your role as a caregiver.
How to Manage:
- Establish a support system with fellow interns or mentors who understand your struggles.
- Practice mindfulness or meditation to clear your mind after difficult cases.
- Take time off when possible to recharge emotionally and mentally.
Handling Criticism & Learning from Mistakes
During an internship, you’re constantly being observed by seniors, residents, and consultants. Mistakes are inevitable, and criticism can sometimes feel harsh. Accepting feedback, learning from it, and improving continuously can be mentally challenging for many interns.
How to Manage:
- View criticism as a learning tool, not as personal judgment.
- Ask for constructive feedback to improve your skills.
- Stay calm and focused; remember, every mistake is an opportunity to grow.
Balancing Personal Life & Professional Life
The demanding nature of the internship often makes it difficult to balance personal life with professional duties. One of the few is, struggles of MBBS Interns often miss family events, social gatherings, and personal time due to erratic shifts and overtime work. This imbalance can take a toll on your relationships and overall well-being.
How to Manage:
- Communicate with your loved ones and explain the challenges you’re facing.
- Plan personal activities during your days off to relax and recharge.
- Set boundaries to ensure you’re taking care of your personal health and relationships.
Long and Intense On-Call Duties
On-call duties are an integral part of medical internships. Interns are required to stay in the hospital overnight, handling emergency cases or assisting in surgeries. These long hours, often without enough rest, can be physically draining, leading to burnout is one of the biggest struggles of MBBS Interns.
How to Manage:
- Stay hydrated and eat healthy meals during on-call shifts to maintain your energy levels.
- Create a comfortable and quiet space during on-call duties to relax and recharge between tasks.
- When on breaks, try to sleep for short periods to recover energy.
Limited Hands-on Experience Due to High Patient Load
Interns often find themselves assigned to a high number of patients, limiting their opportunities for hands-on practice. With limited time and resources, it can be frustrating when you are unable to directly participate in procedures or treatments as much as you’d like. This can be frustrating and can be considered one of the major struggles of MBBS Interns.
How to Manage:
- Make the most of every opportunity to observe and learn from experienced doctors.
- Ask questions and get involved in procedures whenever possible, even if in a minor assisting role.
- Discuss with your superiors the need for more active involvement in cases to enhance your skills.
Financial Strain of Internship Stipends
While MBBS interns do receive stipends, they are often lower than the amount interns might expect given the demanding nature of the job. This financial strain can create additional stress, especially for those who have relocated for their internship or have family responsibilities. The day to day survival becomes pretty tough and is the ideal struggles of MBBS Interns.
How to Manage:
- Budget wisely by tracking your expenses and cutting unnecessary costs.
- Consider freelancing or part-time work that aligns with your skills without compromising your internship duties.
- Look for opportunities to apply for financial support or scholarships if needed.
Final Thoughts
An MBBS internship is an essential part of medical education, providing invaluable hands-on experience. However, it comes with its own set of challenges that can feel overwhelming at times. Understanding these 7 major struggles of MBBS interns can help prepare you mentally and emotionally for this demanding phase of your medical career.
While the journey might seem tough, remember that every challenge is an opportunity to grow. Stay resilient, focus on learning, and make the most of your internship experience. The rewards will be worth it when you finally become a licensed medical professional after all the struggles of MBBS Interns.
Also Read: Top Medical Institutions in India 2025 You Must Know