Medical students face high levels of mental health problems but stigma stops them getting help

Medical students are more likely to experience a broad range of mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, burnout, and anorexic tendencies, than those studying other subjects, say researchers who also found that stigma was a major factor preventing students seeking help.A national survey of almost 800 students from nine medical schools across the UK found half experienced medium to high level of somatic symptoms, such as stomach problems, pain, headaches, insomnia, and low energy. In addition, 62% of respondents drank alcohol at hazardous levels, the researchers from University College London reported in General Psychiatry1 and there were high levels of anorexic tendencies and obsessive-compulsive symptoms compared with previous research of other types of students.A follow-up questionnaire of 400 students identified several factors linked with mental health, including a less positive, more competitive learning environment and students feeling worried about seeking support. Those who felt that they “belonged” experienced fewer severe…
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