Study of stress prevalence and its effect on mental health and academic performance based on gender and residence among the first year Indian medical undergraduate students

Abstract

Background: Stress among medical undergraduates is of growing concern and has been found at increased risk of psychological distress and mental disorders worldwide. However, such studies are missing in Indian medical college setup. Materials and Methods: A total of ninety-nine 1 st year undergraduate students participated in this cross-sectional study and filled the validated General Health Questionnaire (GHQ)-12. Results: Among the 1 st year medical students, mild-to-moderate stress was observed to be of higher prevalence. Based on gender, there was no difference but stress prevalence was higher in the home group than hostel group students. Male and home group of students had higher mean GHQ-12 score compared to female and hostel group of students but not significant statistically. Positive correlation of GHQ-12 score with academic performance was observed for male and hostel group, whereas negative correlation was observed for female and home group of students. Conclusions: Thus, minimal stress is needed for learning process. However, excessive stress has undesirable impact. Hostel life brings in discipline; hence, students residing in hostel are more focused, independent, and do better. To promote mental health and learning in medical students and to produce stress free, holistic and confident future practitioners, awareness of negative events and psychological distress through early phase screening, and stress management training in medical school are necessary.