Anxiety and Depression among new entrants in a Medical College

Abstract

Background: Depression is commonly reported by university students due to change in environment, academic demands, developing new relations and more financial freedom. If that professional course happens to be medical education, the transition is even more drastic. Studies have also shown that Quality of Life (QOL) is negatively affected by the presence of anxiety and depression. Aim: Present study aims to find the prevalence of anxiety, depression and stress among students who have recently joined medical college. Materials & Method: This cross-sectional study was undertaken at Private medical college in north India. Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS) was used for the data collection. MBBS students who have joined the institution in August 2019 were included in the study. Statistical Analysis Used: Data was entered in excel and analysed using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) Version 21. Result: We found that almost half of the students who participated in the study had scores above 10 (meaning thereby depressed) on the depression scale, with 23.5% of respondents showing moderate or severe depression. Two-third students experienced anxiety, with 20% students having severe to very severe anxiety. Stress levels amongst the students were also high, with 47% of the students reporting stress. 3.4% students experienced severe or very severe stress. Conclusion: Medical students have high prevalence of stress, anxiety and depression. It is recommended that medical colleges should implement appropriate and timely measures to address students’ well-being and offer comprehensive intervention and preventive programs to help students cope with this transition phase.