Perceived Stress and Psycho-Social Determinants among Undergraduate Medical Students in Government Medical College, Ongole

Abstract

Background: The World Health Organization recognised stress as the global health epidemic of the 21^st century. Perceived stress is associated with increased levels of depression, alcohol and drug abuse, relationship difficulties, anxiety, and suicide. Medical students are prone to high levels of perceived stress and anxiety, which can negatively impact their academic performance, as well as their physical and mental health.

Objectives: (1) To assess the levels of perceived stress by using the PSS-14 scale, (2) To assess psycho-social determinants of stress and their association with perceived stress, and (3) To assess the coping mechanisms practised by the students.

Materials & Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among undergraduate medical students by using structured questionnaire to assess Perceived stress using the Perceived Stress Scale-14, psycho-social stressors and coping mechanisms practised by the students.

Results: A total of 228 students filled out the questionnaire of which 41.2% are males and 58.8% are females. The prevalence of mild, moderate, and severe stress was 4.4%, 91.7%, and 3.9% respectively. Difficulty reading textbooks (65.8%), High parental expectations (63.6%), and Loneliness (60%) showed a significant association with perceived stress. The coping mechanisms practised by most of the students include talking with friends or family (94.3%), sleeping (87.3%), and listening to music or dancing (81.6%).

Conclusion: The study revealed that moderate stress was higher in female students.