To us wellbeing is not simply the absence of burnout. It is the presence of connection, purpose, support, and the ability to flourish throughout residency and beyond.
It is an experience of feeling healthy, fulfilled, and balanced in your personal and professional life. It reflects living in alignment with your values and having the resources and support needed to thrive.
Residency can be both rewarding and challenging. Prioritizing well-being is essential not only for personal health and development, but also for providing the highest quality care to our patients.
We asked our residents, what does “well-being” mean to you?
"Well-being means a time for rest and joy"
"Well-being is making time for the people and experiences that bring joy and balance into your life!"
"Well-being is making sure you take you take care of the mind so that you remain kind"
"Well-being is moments reminding you of the small joys in life"
"It’s doing something you like with the people you like"
Who is on this committee?
Our committee is composed of the Resident Well-Being Chair, a program coordinator, the Social Chief Resident, and dedicated resident volunteers who are passionate about promoting a positive and supportive residency experience. We meet monthly to discuss resident needs, develop wellness initiatives, and advocate for programs and resources that support resident well-being.
The committee serves as a bridge between residents and program leadership, ensuring that resident voices are heard, and that well-being remains a priority.
What Does the Committee Do?
Our program is committed to fostering a culture that supports key dimensions of resident well-being which includes physical, emotional, social, financial, occupational, and intellectual health.
- Organizing well-being, social, and team-building events
- Promoting physical, emotional, and mental health resources
- Encouraging connection and community among residents
- Identifying factors that contribute to burnout and advocating for improvements
- Gathering resident feedback and communicating well-being needs to program leadership
- Supporting initiatives that promote work-life balance and professional fulfillment
- Raising awareness about available institutional well-being resources
Together, these domains contribute to overall well-being, resilience, and professional satisfaction throughout residency and beyond.
How do we promote well-being among residents?
Our program is committed to creating opportunities that help residents thrive both inside and outside the workplace.
- Personal & Professional Development Day (PPD)
- Throughout the year, residents participate in dedicated Personal & Professional Development Days designed to support their professional and personal growth, as well as their career development.
- Education and discussions on self-care, resilience, and mental health
- PGY-2 Resident Retreat
- Clinical skills workshops
- Patient case simulation sessions
- Leadership development programming
- Financial wellness and financial planning sessions
- Contract negotiation workshops
- Women in Leadership sessions
- Team building activities
Well-Being in the Workplace:
We foster a culture of support, appreciation, inclusion, and belonging through a variety of workplace initiatives
- International Bazaar (January): Celebrating the diverse cultures and backgrounds of our residents
- Well-Being Week (March): A week dedicated to recognizing and appreciating our residents while promoting wellness resources and activities
- Monthly House Staff Lunches: Providing opportunities to connect and build community
- Resident Spotlight Recognition: Celebrating resident achievements and contributions
- "Laughter Is the Best Medicine" Events: Activities held during Mental Health Awareness Month
- Resident Well-Being Report: Regular assessment and feedback regarding resident wellness needs
- Ice Cream Socials: Informal gatherings to encourage connection and camaraderie
Social Events and Community Building:
Creating meaningful connections outside of work is an important component of resident well-being. Our residents enjoy numerous social activities throughout the year, including:
- Intern Welcome Picnic
- Resident Happy Hours
- Annual Kayaking Trip
- Attendings vs. Residents Basketball and Volleyball Games
- Fellowship Match Day Celebrations
- Diwali Celebrations
- Halloween Party
- Annual Sports Day
- Run club
- Holiday Party
- Graduation Celebrations
- Resident Prom
- Annual Awards Night
- Bowling Events
- Escape Rooms
- Scavenger Hunts
- Sports Viewing Gatherings
- Thanksgiving Potluck
Our Commitment:
Through wellness initiatives, we strive to create an environment where every resident can flourish personally and professionally. These events provide opportunities for residents, faculty, and staff to build lasting relationships, celebrate accomplishments, and create a strong sense of community.
MENTORSHIP
- Resident Peer Mentorship
- Faculty Advisor
- Women in Medicine Group
- Parents in medicine group GME
SOCIAL MEDIA
- Instagram (@uconnim_res)
- Facebook (UConn Internal Medicine Residency)
- Twitter (@UConnIM)
- 4 Weeks of Vacation
- Parental Leave
- Program Health Benefits - Vision, Dental, Medical
- Free Mental Health Counseling
- Employee Assistance Program
- Education Funds
- Discounts