You'll find that your strongest support system will be your classmates and senior residents, however there are more formal support systems in place. Through the efforts of the Resident Advocacy Committee and weekly house staff meetings, resident support systems are in place to address both the physical and emotional stresses of residency training.

Early in the PL-1 year, residents are paired with a faculty advisor who is available at any time to discuss evaluations, personal problems, professional progress or to give guidance in career planning. The Program Director and the Associate Program Director hold regularly scheduled meetings, in groups and individually, throughout the year and maintain an open-door policy at all times.

The residents' social committee plans activities and events to bring the residents and their families together during the year.

At mid-year, PL-1s enjoy a two-day retreat at a recreational location distant from the hospital. The purpose of the retreat is to promote mutual support and a spirit of cooperation, and to encourage reflection on the goals and methods of the training program. Second-year residents go on retreat late in the PL-2 year.

The Employee Assistance Program is another support system that is offered to all employees of St. Christopher's Hospital for Children. It offers free, confidential short-term counseling and referral for a variety of problems, including stress, marital/family issues, depression and anxiety, alcohol and drug abuse programs, grief and financial or legal difficulties.