CONTEXT

This psychiatry module focused on common psychiatric disorders, including psychotic, mood, and anxiety disorders. Through lectures, small group discussions (SGDs), and exposure to actual patients at the VSMMC Center for Behavioral Sciences, I was able to deepen my understanding not only of the epidemiology, etiology, clinical manifestations, course and prognosis, differential diagnosis, and management of these disorders, but also of the unique and sensitive role of the physician when dealing with mental health concerns. As a result, the following program outcomes were achieved: clinical competence (PO1), communication (PO2), and collaboration (PO5).

EXPERIENCE

First, in terms of clinical competence (PO1), the lectures and SGDs provided me with the foundational knowledge to approach psychiatric conditions systematically. We were guided to look at patients holistically—not just their biological aspects, but also the psychological and social dimensions that shape their illness. Although psychiatry can sometimes be seen as abstract, the discussions helped make the concepts more tangible and gave me a clearer framework for understanding. The highlight for me was the field trip to the VSMMC Center for Behavioral Sciences, where I had the chance to interview an actual psychiatric patient. That experience was both humbling and eye-opening. It made me realize how different it is to encounter a real person with lived experiences compared to analyzing a case on paper. It required me to balance professionalism with compassion, while paying attention to the details needed for a thorough psychiatric history and mental status examination. Second, learning psychiatric history-taking and the MSE taught me how much sensitivity, active listening, and empathy matter in psychiatry (PO2). The way questions are asked, the tone used, and the patience shown all influence how much a patient is willing to share. The field exposure helped me practice this, and I could see firsthand how important it is to create a safe space for patients to open up. Lastly, collaboration (PO5) was also a constant theme. In SGDs, my groupmates and I exchanged insights, debated differential diagnoses, and refined our understanding as a team. This collaborative spirit carried over into the fieldwork, where interacting with peers during interviews provided support and helped me improve my approach.

I have to admit that this module was academically heavy. With both written and practical exams scheduled as part of the block, I sometimes struggled to fully appreciate the subject. The exam was difficult, and although I studied hard, I felt I could have done better. Still, I take comfort in knowing that I gave my best effort given the circumstances, and that perseverance is something I am proud of. 

REFLECTION

First, I learned that psychiatry demands not only theoretical knowledge but also an ability to piece together clues from a patient’s history and presentation. For example, in our field exposure, I found it both intellectually stimulating and emotionally challenging to sift through symptoms while being careful not to jump to conclusions. Second, I was reminded that words carry weight in psychiatry. The way we ask questions, the tone we use, and even the silence we allow during an interview can all influence how much a patient shares. During the psychiatric interview, I felt nervous at first, but gradually I learned that being genuinely attentive and respectful helped the patient open up more. Lastly, I appreciated how much I learned from my groupmates. Psychiatry often involves multiple interpretations, and having peers to discuss with made me realize the importance of teamwork. While I may notice one aspect of a patient’s presentation, others notice details I missed. This collective approach strengthened our understanding and gave me a glimpse of how interdisciplinary collaboration is vital in psychiatry.

ACTION

First, I want to strengthen my knowledge base in psychiatry by reviewing the materials again outside of exam periods, at my own pace. This will help me retain and appreciate the concepts better. Second, I plan to practice more on psychiatric interviewing, whether through roleplay with peers or by seeking more patient encounters in the future. Building confidence in communication will not only help in psychiatry but also in other specialties where empathy and listening are equally important. Lastly, I want to consciously develop my advocacy for mental health by reading more about community-based approaches and integrating this awareness into my future practice.

EVALUATION

Looking back, I believe this module allowed me to grow both in skill and in mindset. I was able to practice clinical competence through history-taking and mental status examination, strengthen my communication by learning to listen with empathy, and develop collaboration through group discussions and patient encounters. These experiences made me realize how psychiatry integrates science with compassion, and how important it is to treat patients with dignity while still being systematic in assessment and management. While the exams were difficult and I felt my performance could have been better, I still value the effort I put in and the persistence I showed throughout. Trying my hardest, even under pressure, is something I can still take pride in. At the same time, this module made me reflect on my attitude and areas for improvement. I recognize that I sometimes hesitated to fully engage or voice out my thoughts in group discussions, and that I could have managed my study time more effectively to gain a deeper appreciation of the subject. Still, I see these as opportunities for growth rather than shortcomings. Overall, I believe I performed reasonably well, but more importantly, I gained resilience, empathy, and perspective—qualities that will serve me not just in psychiatry but in my future practice as a physician.