Estudio sobre salud mental y motivación en estudiantes del grado de Medicina de la Facultad de Medicina de la Universidad de Málaga

Abstract

Introduction

The objective of the study was to analyze the mental health of students in the Medicine Degree program at the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Málaga through the evaluation of symptoms consistent with depression, anxiety, stress, as well as their motivation for studying medicine.

Methods

This descriptive observational study was performed on medical students of University of Málaga from first to sixth year, using a self-administered survey in virtual format. Data regarding general variables are collected through questions answered using Likert scale ratings. Additionally, two validated scales are utilized: the MEM-12 (Motivations for Studying Medicine) and DASS-21 (Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale).

Results

This study obtained 189 responses for the analysis, with 65.1% being female, and 36.5% aged between 17 to 20 years old. The motivations for choosing to study the Medicine Degree have been altruistic, with the majority indicating that it is because they can help others. However, more than half of the respondents have considered dropping out of their medical studies at some point. The percentages of symptoms consistent with depression, anxiety, and stress, ranging from moderate to extremely severe, have been 46.5, 56.6, and 57%, respectively. Additionally, a significant percentage of suicidal ideation has been recorded, corresponding to 14.3%.

Conclusions

Medical students, who are often among the top academically from a young age, face significant pressure and self-demand, which can impact their psychosocial well-being. Further research on the mental health of medical students in Spain is needed to understand and address these difficulties.