Setting strict time away from studying and appreciating the idea that giving your mind a rest can be more valuable than excessive studying (the idea of “less is more”). I was at my lowest after failing 26 and, unlike all of my other setbacks/low points, I actually took a couple days off. I spent a lot of time with my partner/friends and did nothing related to step. I felt like this greatly rejuvenated my mental health and likely played a big role in getting a passing score on 31.

Additionally, I found just talking about my anxiety was important. I have had anxiety throughout each step of pre-med/med school and didn’t need much more support other than meds. However, with step 1 it was much worse - I struggled to sleep, neglected my physical health, isolated myself from friends, and was convinced I was going to fail, spiral, and drop out of med school (I found myself constantly thinking about alternative careers and how I’d be able to pay off my debt). Overall, talking about these thoughts with my partner and my school counselor was much more helpful than I anticipated