Coffee and a Gas episode 28: The elephant in the room: trauma, imposter syndrome and medicine

In this deeply honest episode, Lucy reflects on a traumatic experience from early in her medical training and how its psychological impact followed her into clinical practice. We explore PTSD, imposter syndrome, and the hidden emotional burden of working in high-pressure specialties like anaesthetics. This conversation shines a light on the gap between outward competence and inner struggle, the culture of silence around trauma in medicine, and why acknowledging our humanity matters for long-term wellbeing. We also signpost to support available for anaesthetists through the Association of Anaesthetists: Wellbeing & support hub https://anaesthetists.org/Home/Wellbeing-support Mental wellbeing guidance https://anaesthetists.org/Home/Wellbeing-support/Mental-wellbeing Emergency contacts & support services https://anaesthetists.org/Wellbeing/Emergency-contacts Wellbeing leads & career support https://anaesthetists.org/Home/Wellbeing-support/Career-support/Wellbeing-Leads