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What is the best way to handle emotions, compassion, and the responsibility of being a medical examiner?

I am currently a high school student and wanting to continue my education in forensic science as Coroner. My biggest worry is how to detach my emotions and compassion from my duties and responsibilities.

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Tatanyia’s Answer

As a paramedic I have to deal with people who are having the worst day of their lives, you can get very worn out and overwhelmed. You do get used to the death but I don't think you ever get used to the families who have to go on with out their loved ones. I would say start counciling right away when you start to have an outlet. Getting help doesn't mean you're weak but it means you are handling the negative emotions responsibility
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Teklemuz Ayenew’s Answer

Handling emotions, compassion, and responsibility as a medical examiner can be challenging, but you can succeed with the right strategies. Embrace emotional awareness and self-care while staying focused on your work. It's okay to feel sad or stressed; just remember to acknowledge these feelings without letting them disrupt your duties. Mindfulness, journaling, and reflection can help you process emotions and stay balanced. Activities like yoga or deep breathing can also ease tension and sharpen focus.

Try to focus on solutions instead of problems. If a problem can be fixed, take action; if not, save your energy for what you can change. This mindset helps you care for the deceased and their families with compassion, without being overwhelmed by grief, and it supports clear and professional actions.

Make sure to look after yourself with regular exercise, good nutrition, enough sleep, hobbies, and mental health support. This prevents burnout and boosts your resilience. By managing your emotions, setting boundaries, and concentrating on what you can control, you can maintain your well-being and integrity in this important role.
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Michelle’s Answer

Hello, Addison !

Your great question shows that you already have an innate ability to be empathetic and compassionate in your future work as a Medical Examiner.

The main situation where this would be applied is during the interaction with the deceased's family members. You may, in some cases, have to interview the family members and friends to obtain information about the deceased. You and/or your Medical Examiner officer support staff will also interact with families/friends about your findings, cause of death and any concerns about the quality of care received. The families or friends may also want to know about what the investigative process was.

You will be able to know the way to communicate for this career as your undergraduate (by taking a course in Grief from the psychology department or a Death and Dying course) and your Medical School path will teach you a lot about the entire scope of the career. During your Residency and if you choose to do a Fellowship for your specialty, you can take courses in communication skills that are essential for interacting with grieving families. Everything will fall into place and your natural abilities will also come into play. You will definitely be able to provide proper closure for the families as well as support.

I hope this helps and I wish you all the best moving forward !
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