Psychosocial perspective of first year medical students entered in a professional course – a cross sectional study from Davangere, Karnataka
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Abstract
Background
The perception of stress is frequently influenced by socio cultural factors; the results of studies on one region cannot be generalized to the other. This study is an attempt to explore the perception of stress and allied stressors among Indian medical students who have just entered into professional course.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was done on medical students of SSIMSRC, Davangere, Karnataka. Depression, anxiety and stress scores were noted using DASS questionnaire and sleep quality assessed using PIRS questionnaire. Attributable factors for negative emotional state in students were also noted. Pearson’s correlation used to note correlation between the negative emotional states scores and sleep parameters score.
Results
Mean depression, anxiety and stress scores were 8.88±7.31, 8.29±6.41 and 10.46±6.67 respectively. Significant positive correlation between these scores and sleep parameters score was observed. Common attributable factors for negative emotional states were greater academic demands (36%), being in one’s own environment with new responsibilities (35%), being away from home(31%), exposure to new people, ideas and time (27%), facing new and difficult college work (47%), missing family or friends, feeling alone or isolated, experiencing conflict in relationships (34%),worrying about finances (13%). change in food habit (35%), change in living arrangements (26%), personality factors (30%).
Conclusion
Negative emotional states affect sleep quality and play a contributory factor for stressed situation, so early intervention of these states are required for the improvement of mental health and academic career.
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References
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