The Prevalence of Anxiety and Depression in Medical Students

Oct 13, 2025 by magicalceylontours.com 84 views

Understanding the Images of Anxiety and Depression Symptoms in Students of the Faculty of Medicine, University of North Sumatra

Background

Anxiety and depression are two mental disorders that have become increasingly prevalent in the community, particularly among students. These disorders often arise due to inappropriate development and excessive concern. According to the Riskesdas 2013 data, the prevalence of mental emotional disorders such as symptoms of depression and anxiety in individuals aged 15 years and over reaches around 14 million people or 6% of the total Indonesian population. On the other hand, severe mental disorders such as schizophrenia are reported to reach around 400,000 people or 1.7 per 1,000 population.

The Prevalence of Anxiety and Depression in Medical Students

Medical students are one of the groups that are most vulnerable to anxiety and depression. The demands from family and environment, pressure for academic achievement, high examination frequencies, as well as lack of time for recreation, all contribute to this condition. Therefore, it is essential to understand the images of SIMTOM-SIMTOM Ansietas and depression among students of the Faculty of Medicine, University of North Sumatra.

Research Purposes

The main purpose of this study was to find out the picture of the Simtom-Simtom Ansietas and Depression in the Faculty of Medicine, University of North Sumatra.

Research Methods

This research is a descriptive study with cross-sectional design. Data was collected through a questionnaire distributed to 88 students of the Faculty of Medicine, University of North Sumatra in the academic year 2020/2021. This research was conducted in September 2020.

Research Results

The results showed that the prevalence of anxiety symptoms reached 43% and depression by 25% among medical students. Symptoms of anxiety are more commonly found in students aged 20 years (36%), especially in female sex (41%), who come from Medan City (39%), as well as the first and last year students (41%). On the other hand, symptoms of depression are more common in students aged 19 years (33%), the majority of men (30%), who come from outside the city of Medan (35%), as well as in the first, second and last year students 27%.

Additional Analysis and Explanation

It is interesting to observe that the factors that influence anxiety and depression among students are not only related to aspects of age and gender, but also social and environmental conditions. Students who come from outside the city of Medan show a higher prevalence of depression, which may be caused by discomfort in adapting in a new environment, far from family and social support they usually have.

Furthermore, academic pressure felt by medical students is very high given the complexity and demands encountered. Solid learning activities coupled with fierce competition in achieving academic achievement can increase the risk of developing anxiety and depression symptoms. Therefore, it is essential for educational institutions to provide mental support programs, such as counseling and recreational activities, to help students overcome the stress they face.

Conclusion

From the results of this study, it can be seen that the picture of the Simtom-Simtom Anxiety and Depression in Medical Students at the University of North Sumatra is strongly influenced by age, gender, origin, and academic years. Knowledge of Simtoms is very important to identify students who need help and support so that they can undergo medical education mentally healthier. Through preventive efforts and appropriate support programs, students are expected to reduce the risk of experiencing anxiety and depression, as well as achieving better mental well-being.

Recommendations

Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations are made:

Educational institutions should provide mental support programs, such as counseling and recreational activities, to help students overcome the stress they face.
Students who come from outside the city of Medan should be provided with additional support and guidance to help them adapt to the new environment.
Academic pressure should be reduced by providing students with more flexible learning schedules and opportunities for recreation.
Students should be educated on the importance of mental health and the signs and symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Limitations of the Study

This study has several limitations, including:

The sample size was relatively small, which may not be representative of the entire student population.
The study only focused on students of the Faculty of Medicine, University of North Sumatra, and may not be generalizable to other students.
The study only collected data on anxiety and depression symptoms and did not collect data on other mental health issues.

Future Research Directions

Future research should aim to:

Investigate the prevalence of anxiety and depression symptoms in other student populations.
Examine the effectiveness of mental support programs in reducing anxiety and depression symptoms.
Identify the underlying factors that contribute to anxiety and depression symptoms in students.

By understanding the images of SIMTOM-SIMTOM Ansietas and depression among students of the Faculty of Medicine, University of North Sumatra, we can provide more effective support and guidance to help them overcome the stress they face and achieve better mental well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Anxiety and Depression in Medical Students

Q: What are anxiety and depression?

A: Anxiety and depression are two mental disorders that can affect anyone, including medical students. Anxiety is a feeling of worry, nervousness, or fear that is persistent and interferes with daily life. Depression is a mood disorder characterized by feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities.

Q: Why are medical students at risk for anxiety and depression?

A: Medical students are at risk for anxiety and depression due to the high demands of medical school, including long hours, high stakes exams, and the pressure to perform well. Additionally, medical students often experience stress and anxiety related to their future careers and the responsibility of caring for patients.

Q: What are the symptoms of anxiety and depression in medical students?

A: The symptoms of anxiety and depression in medical students can include:

Feeling overwhelmed or anxious about schoolwork or clinical responsibilities
Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
Loss of interest in activities or hobbies
Feeling sad, hopeless, or irritable
Changes in appetite or weight
Difficulty making decisions or feeling indecisive

Q: How common are anxiety and depression in medical students?

A: Anxiety and depression are common among medical students. According to the study, 43% of medical students experienced anxiety symptoms, and 25% experienced depression symptoms.

Q: What factors contribute to anxiety and depression in medical students?

A: Several factors contribute to anxiety and depression in medical students, including:

Age: Students who are older may be more likely to experience anxiety and depression due to the added responsibilities and stress of medical school.
Gender: Women are more likely to experience anxiety and depression than men.
Origin: Students who come from outside the city of Medan may be more likely to experience depression due to the discomfort of adapting to a new environment.
Academic years: Students in their first, second, and last year may be more likely to experience anxiety and depression due to the high demands of medical school.

Q: What can medical students do to manage anxiety and depression?

A: Medical students can take several steps to manage anxiety and depression, including:

Seeking help from a mental health professional
Practicing stress-reducing techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing
Engaging in regular exercise or physical activity
Building a support network of friends, family, or peers
Taking regular breaks and practicing self-care

Q: What can medical schools do to support students with anxiety and depression?

A: Medical schools can take several steps to support students with anxiety and depression, including:

Providing access to mental health services and counseling
Offering stress-reducing workshops or classes
Encouraging students to take regular breaks and practice self-care
Providing a supportive and inclusive learning environment
Encouraging students to seek help when needed

Q: What are the consequences of untreated anxiety and depression in medical students?

A: Untreated anxiety and depression in medical students can have serious consequences, including:

Decreased academic performance
Decreased motivation and interest in learning
Decreased job satisfaction and performance as a physician
Increased risk of burnout and compassion fatigue
Decreased well-being and quality of life

Q: What are the benefits of seeking help for anxiety and depression in medical students?

A: Seeking help for anxiety and depression in medical students can have several benefits, including:

Improved academic performance and motivation
Improved job satisfaction and performance as a physician
Improved well-being and quality of life
Increased resilience and coping skills
Increased support and connection with peers and mentors.