Stress in Medical Students and its Consequences: A Cross-Sectional Study at a College of Medicine in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Studies shows that stress is more in medical students compared to other profession. Causes are academic overload etc. it reduces the efficiency, performance, physical and mental problems and may leads addiction and suicide. Some changes in medical curriculum made is not much fruitful. The present study was conducted in college of medicine, King Feisal University, Saudi Arabia, where we are following problem-based learning by self-structured questioners after explanation. Our result shows that 47.18% of medical students are suffering from severe stress compared to 22.50% of in engineering students. Striking result is 66.22 % of female medical students have severe stress. This problem is more in final year male medical students (61.54%). The common cause of their stress are vast syllabus, Exam system lack of counseling etc. so it is necessary to Timely reviving of academic curriculum, exam pattern, additional recreational activities like music, sports, educational tours, cultural activities, interaction and guidance by faculties, counselling, mentorship, relaxation techniques, stress management workshops etc. Teachers must put more concentration on students with problem and try to encourage in learning rather than scolding student by their ranks.