Burn out in University students: An international study

Abstract

Background The objectives were to determine the prevalence of burn-out (BO) and to identify associated comportment risk factors in university students in four countries. Methods In 2015, a cross-sectional study was conducted in four universities in four countries: Constantine (Algeria), Rouen (France), Miskolc (Hungary) and Cluj-Napoca (Romania). An anonymous self-questionnaire collected various information: sex, age, university curriculum, behavior risk, and such risk of eating disorder and use of neuro-enhancement substances for exam preparation. BO level was measured using the Maslach Burnout Inventory with 3 levels: low, moderate and high level. Stress level was measured using Cohen's Stress Scale. Results A total of 1983 students were included (932 in France, 647 in Hungary, 222 in Romania and 182 in Algeria). The prevalence of high level BO was 29.7% in Algeria, 17.9% in France, 12.6% in Hungary and 21.7% in Romania. The highest prevalence was in found in medical students. In the four countries, the mean stress level ranged from 13.5 (SD = 2.1) in France to 16.8 (SD = 6.9) in Algeria. High BO was significantly associated with to be a medical student (AOR = 2.23, 95% CI = 1.87–2.76), to have financial difficulties (AOR = 1.69, 95% CI = 1.18–2.45) and regular physical activity (AOR = 0.61, 95% CI = 1.24–1.84). Conclusion Prevalence of BO, especially in medical students was high in different in sociocultural context. The BO could have critical professional and personal consequences in medium- and long-term. To address this highly prevalent new challenge, educators must first develop greater awareness and understanding of BO. Medical students appear as a particular risk population. Individual as well as institutional interventions should be targeted to prevent burnout among university students, especially in medical students. Public health interventions should be taken to encourage identifying vulnerable students. Future researches are needed to develop practical ways to identify students at risk, prevent and reduce student distress. Such programs are vital to ensuring the well being of students. Educational and public health interventions focusing on BO prevention and management and generating wellness among student population are highly recommended.