HOW DOES PERCEIVED SOCIAL SUPPORT MEDIATE THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN ACADEMIC STRESS AND MENTAL HEALTH STATES AMONG MEDICAL STUDENTS?

Abstract

Medical students are vulnerable to psychological distress, yet few seek professional help. The objectives of this study were (1) to identify the relationship between academic stress and mental health problems and (2) to explore the mediating role of social support in the relationship between academic stress and mental health among Ningxia medical students in China. We conducted a cross-sectional study over five months, starting in May 2023, using a convenience sample of 2,206 respondents. Consequently, we collected data via self-administered questionnaires and analysed them using SPSS version 29. The results of logistic regression analysis revealed that social support had a significant negative impact on depression, anxiety, and stress levels. Additionally, perceived academic stress was negatively associated with mental health. Furthermore, the PROCESS macro analysis demonstrated that social support was discovered to mediate the link between academic stress and mental health, underscoring its importance for student well-being. Friends, family, and counselling services help students manage mental health issues, reduce loneliness, and foster a sense of belonging. Encouragement from others can also boost motivation and improve academic performance. Therefore, universities should enhance their support systems to provide necessary resources for students’ academic, personal, and professional success.