Comparing levels of psychological stress and its inducing factors among medical students

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to determine and compare degrees of psychological stress and inducing factors thereof among first to fifth year medical students (MS). METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 468 female MS. We used the Kessler 10 Psychological Distress Inventory consisting of questions on a range of stress-inducing factors. RESULTS: A total of 67.9% students reported physiological stress. The percentage of MS without stress and with mild, moderate, and severe stress was 32%, 24%, 22%, and 21.8%, respectively. The highest prevalence of physiological stress was found among first-year students (82.6%). Stress scores significantly decreased with advancement in the year of study, except for the final year (p = 0.001). We found that the first year of medical studies (0.022), academic stress (0.001), the presence of a physical problem (0.001), and being married (0.002) were independent risk factors for high perceived stress (HPS), as shown by K10 scores >24. A total of 11.1% students consulted a psychiatrist, whereas 3.4% admitted taking some medication for stress. CONCLUSION: This study infers that the first year of medical studies, academic stress, the presence of a physical problem, and being married are independent risk factors for HPS. We recommend mandatory stress screening for MS in all medical colleges. Ideally, the screening should be repeated every six months and students identified as having HPS should be provided with counselling, mental health services, and a proper follow-up.