Examining mental health of medical students: a DASS21 scale assessment

Abstract

Background: Stress is a global phenomenon that affects nearly everyone. The medical curriculum is often regarded as one of the most difficult professional degree courses in the world, and so the prevalence of stress is clear. Because of this trend, the pupils' mental health must be evaluated. The purpose of this study was to gather information about stress levels among undergraduate medical students. Methods: The research was carried out at the RUHS college of medical sciences. Data was acquired using Google Forms via a self-administered questionnaire that contained students' consent and semester information. The questionnaire consisted of 21 questions based on the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS21). Results: The response rate of this study was 91.02% (213/234). The study also revealed more active female participation than male respondents. Out of the total responses (n=234), 54.6% were females and 44.8% were male. The analysis showed that medical students had experienced higher levels of depression (55%), and anxiety (64%) relative to stress (34%). Female students were found more anxious and depressed. Conclusions: The study found a high prevalence of stress, anxiety, and depression among medical students. Preventive approaches for improving student mental health are so required.