Wise and Well Program

The UTHealth Houston Neurology’s Wise and Well program was created in 2018 by one of our former chief residents Dr. Doha Ayish and has been a wonderful example within the university of promoting trainee well being. You can stream Dr. Ayish’s grand rounds presentation titled ‘Physicians’ Burnout… Does It Really Matter’ here.

Our wellness initiatives are comprised of in-house get-togethers with workshops on ways to combat burnout, team-building games and athletics.  We also try to have monthly happy hours as a way to get together and unwind in a non-work environment.

The goals of Wise and Well are to

  • Address resident well-being
  • Identify potential factors associated with resident happiness/success
  • Combat burnout, depression, anxiety and social isolation related to the ongoing pandemic.

Wellness Workshop – “Balance versus Burnout”

“Balance versus Burnout” by Reshma Kara, consists of monthly sessions designed to recognize signs out burnout, practice yoga and meditation techniques and make fresh juices.

In-House Get-Togethers

Residents at Wise and Well

Monthly wellness sessions during noon conference time with lunch, games (some of which are neurology related) and birthday celebrations.

Holiday Celebrations

From Iftar parties to crafting ornaments for our Christmas tree, we cover it all!

Sports i.e. Neuro-nerd Athletics

Residents, fellows and faculty i.e. ‘Neuro-nerds’ meet to play various sports including volleyball, soccer, basketball and tennis. 

Retreats and other outdoor activities

2020 – Camp Allen
2021 – Texas Treeventures
2021 – Tennis Social
2022 – First Annual Neuroscience Field Day (pictured)

Support and Counseling Services

Residents have free access to many support services through UTHealth.Care.com. The services include free child care, elder care, housekeeping, pet care, and tutoring. Furthermore, counseling services are provided by the UTEAP (713-500-3327). Residents can reach out to counselors and share their issues and matters whether they are work or personally related. The first 5 sessions are offered free by UTH and all sessions are confidential.