Mental Health and Lifestyle-Related Behaviors in Medical students in a Jordanian University, and Variations by Clerkship Status

Abstract

Abstract Background: The rigors of medical education often take a toll on students' mental well-being, resulting in heightened stress, anxiety, depression, somatization, and thoughts of self-harm. Evaluating medical students' mental health is essential to foster resilient, well-rounded future physicians. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of mental health disorders among Yarmouk University medical students, explore the links between mental state and demographic and lifestyle factors, and compare mental health profiles between preclinical/pre-clerkship (years 1-3) and clinical (years 4-6) students. Methods: An online survey was administered to Yarmouk University Faculty of Medicine undergraduates during the academic year of 2021/2022. Mental health was measured using validated tools (Patient Health Questionnaire, PHQ-9, for depression; SCOFF for eating disorders; Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale, GAD-7; and Patient Health Questionnaire for Somatic Symptoms, PHQ-15). Sociodemographic, academic, lifestyle, and stress data also were measured. Bivariate and multivariable analyses evaluated the associations between academic level and mental health, accounting for sociodemographic and lifestyle factors. Results: Out of the 618 participating medical students, 48.4% screened positive for depression, 36.7% for anxiety, and 63.6% reported experiencing a high level of stress. Slightly over half experienced somatic symptoms, and 28.6% exhibited signs of eating disorders. Roughly, 26% had suicidal thoughts. Potential alcohol abuse/dependence was negligible. Low reported rates of healthy behaviors were observed (e.g. balanced diets, 5.7%; vigorous physical activity, 17.0%). Smoking prevalence was 24.6%, notably higher among clinical students. At the multivariable level, stress, insomnia, eating disorders and cigarette smoking were consistently associated with depression, anxiety and somatization; and higher physical activity scores were associated with lower depression risk. Conclusion: This study highlights the pressing need to address the alarming rates of depression, anxiety, somatization, stress, and eating disorders among Jordanian medical students. Notably, there were minimal differences between preclinical and clinical students, suggesting that students face challenges early on that persist. Prioritizing mental health support and promoting healthier lifestyles among medical students are vital steps toward nurturing resilient, well-rounded future medical professionals.