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Medical Science OPEN ACCESS

Stress Among Medical Students Around the World: A Global Review of Prevalence, Risk Factors, And Consequences

Sayfullayeva Sarvinoz
Kimyo International University in Tashkent (Medical school), Uzbekistan
DOI Crossref DOI 10.37547/tajmspr/Volume08Issue10-05
tajmspr 2026
VOL. 8 / NO. 10 OCTOBER
FULL TEXT PP. 33-37
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VOLUME 8
ISSUE 10
YEAR 2026
PAGES 33-37
RESEARCH OVERVIEW

Abstract

Medical education is widely recognized as a demanding academic and professional environment that may negatively affect students’ psychological well-being. Medical students are exposed to multiple potential stressors, including intensive academic workloads, examinations, clinical responsibilities, sleep disturbances, financial concerns, interpersonal difficulties, and uncertainty regarding their future careers. Evidence from systematic reviews and meta-analyses indicates that anxiety, depression, psychological distress, and burnout are common among medical students worldwide. A global meta-analysis of 69 studies involving 40,348 medical students estimated the prevalence of anxiety at 33.8% (95% CI: 29.2–38.7%). Similarly, a systematic review and meta-analysis including 167 cross-sectional studies and 116,628 medical students reported a pooled prevalence of depression or depressive symptoms of 27.2% (95% CI: 24.7–29.9%). Suicidal ideation was identified in 11.1% of students across 24 cross-sectional studies involving 21,002 participants.

The burden of psychological distress varies considerably between studies because of differences in geographical location, academic stage, assessment instruments, definitions, and study methodology. Academic pressure, clinical exposure, inadequate sleep, limited social support, and difficulties accessing mental-health services are repeatedly identified as important contributors. The COVID-19 pandemic further intensified several of these challenges. This review summarizes current evidence regarding the global burden of stress and related psychological problems among medical students and discusses major risk factors, consequences, and possible institutional strategies for prevention and support.

RESEARCH TOPICS

Keywords

Medical students stress psychological distress

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