Vital Coach: A Study of Resiliency in Medical Students
Trial Parameters
Brief Summary
Medical students often begin training with psychological and physiological health metrics superior to their age-matched peers. By graduation, however, rates of depression, anxiety, and physiologic dysregulation are markedly higher, reflecting the cumulative strain of long study hours, high-stakes examinations, and the emotional burden of early patient care. Despite this, few medical schools provide structured, evidence-based tools for students to develop resiliency and recovery skills before clinical rotations begin.
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * active first year Wake Forest School of Medicine medical students * have an Android or iOS smart phone * are willing to download the Arena Strive application Exclusion Criteria: * under the age of 18; or over the age of 60 * pregnant at enrollment or during course of study * any self-reported cardiac conditions that may impact heart rate and heart rate variability