Challenges of poor sleep quality and mental health issues among Syrian medical residents in 22 major hospitals across Syria

Abstract

A nationwide survey in the USA reported that healthcare workers had the highest prevalence of short sleep duration compared with other professions. Moreover, several studies have reported poor sleep quality among healthcare professionals and described insufficient sleep as a potential driver of reduced physician well-being. This study aims to explore sleep quality and mental health issues among Syrian medical residents, with the goal of informing targeted interventions to enhance their well-being and professional performance. This cross-sectional study in Syria involved 2071 residents from 22 major hospitals. Conducted between 27 October 2023 and 4 April 2024, it used face-to-face interviews with validated questionnaires following STROBE guidelines. Hospitals were categorized for comparative analysis. Measures included demographics, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Patient Health Questionnaire for depression, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item. In a study involving 2071 hospital residents across Syria's major hospitals, significant findings reveal a high prevalence of poor sleep quality (67.7%), depressive symptoms (46%) and anxiety symptoms (42.2%). Analysis by hospital categories highlighted varied rates, with Damascus and Hama General Hospitals showing notably higher incidences. Females exhibited higher rates of depressive and anxiety symptoms compared with males, with predictors including gender, age and marital status. The relatively high prevalence of poor sleep quality, depressive symptoms and anxiety symptoms among Syrian medical residents necessitates proper action, which will probably include limits on work hours, to enhance mental health outcomes and ensure proper patient care.