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STEP 5 OF 5 · EVERYONE

Wellbeing, support and professional networks

You are not alone: confidential help and community.

  • ⏱ 5 min read
  • Everyone
  • Step 5 of 5
  • Reviewed 24 October 2026
  • Doctors’ Support Network, BMA counselling and NHS Practitioner Health provide confidential help.
  • Register with a GP and use occupational health.
  • Join specialty societies and local associations: mentorship and networks protect against isolation.
  • IMGs can join community groups, mentoring schemes and “buddy” programmes in their trust.

Early warning signs

  • Sleep disturbance, irritability, loss of enjoyment and dread before work.
  • Using alcohol or other substances to cope.
  • Avoiding colleagues or feeling you cannot ask for help.

If you notice these, speak to a trusted colleague, your educational supervisor or your GP. NHS Practitioner Health offers a free, confidential service to doctors and dentists in England, and the BMA runs a 24-hour counselling line for doctors.

This page is general education, reviewed 24 October 2026. Rules, fees and dates change: always confirm with the official sources below. It is not medical, legal or immigration advice.