Sources et moyens de réduction du stress chez les étudiants en médecine : analyse d’entretiens focalisés

Abstract

Context: Stress and anxiety are major issues for medical students. In fact, stress levels increase during medical training. At the end of their training, 48% of students report feeling anxious or nervous. Objective: This study explores the needs, attitudes and perceptions of students as they relate to stress and anxiety in view of implementing an intervention program at the medical school of Laval University. Method: Two focus groups comprising thirteen preclinical students underwent semi-structured interviews focusing on sources of stress, stress management and intervention options. Results: Anticipating residency and clerkships, comparisons between students, performance and some teachers' comments were the main sources of stress reported. Students were specifically worried about not being able to appropriately apply what they learned during residency and clerkships. Comparisons between students focused on progress through the program and extra-curricular involvement. Students identified their family, sports, time management and a first year in another program as stress-reducing factors. According to some students, a mandatory program would help them manage and prevent stress. Conclusion: This study supports the contention that medical students in Laval University's school of medicine face many sources of stress that justify implementing a stress and anxiety management program. (English) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]