The issue of medical student wellbeing is one that has gained increased attention in recent times. As part of our response to this important issue, AMSA, in conjunction with MDA National, introduced the Healthy Body Healthy Mind (HBHM) Campaign. This campaign, which complements MDA National's own Live Well Study Well campaign, seeks to raise awareness of the issues affecting medical students and encourage local wellbeing activities.

Part of the HBHM campaign is to encourage medical student groups to run their own wellbeing activities for their members. In 2009, MDA National offered prizes of $2,000 and $1,000 to the student groups with the best wellbeing activities, run in September.

Congratulations to the University of New England as the winners for 2009, and to the University of Sydney as the runners-up.

Healthy Body Healthy Mind Tips

The heavy workload imposed by medicine can lead to a variety of personal difficulties. These may manifest as reduced physical activity, inadequate sleep, mental health problems, poor eating habits, substance abuse or financial difficulties.
There are no simple solutions to these issues, but there are a few things that might help to reduce your troubles:

• Allow time for regular physical activity.
• Allocate enough time for sleep.
• Share your feelings with those close to you.
• See your general practitioner regularly (check out the AMSA Get-A-GP Campaign page for a list of GPs in your area offering Bulk Billing to medical students).
• Organise your time efficiently and plan ahead.
• Maintain a good diet. Don't rely on fast food.
• Avoid excessive alcohol and other drugs.
• Discuss ways to save more effectively with your bank.
• See if you are eligible for Centrelink assistance.
• Check university notice boards for work that fits your studies.

MDA National is proud to be the foundation sponsor and a wellbeing partner of AMSA's Healthy Body Healthy Mind Campaign.