Iranian medical students' experiences, perceptions, and psychological conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Abstract Background and aim: Quarantine and social distancing caused by the 2019 coronavirus disease have posed significant challenges for various aspects of the healthcare system including medical students. On the other hand, being exposed to COVID-19 is associated with a high risk of depression and anxiety among healthcare workers. In this study, we attempt to examine the psychological effects and perceptions of medical students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: This national cross-sectional study was conducted on Iranian medical students in 2021. The data collection tool is an electronic questionnaire that includes demographic characteristics, the PHQ-9 and the GAD-7 standard questionnaires, and a researcher-designed questionnaire on medical students' educational experience. Results: 2176 medical students participated in our study. The results showed that the satisfaction of e-learning among Iranian medical students is below average. Additionally, we observed a high prevalence of depression (40.1%) and anxiety (23.9%). Also men were less depressed and anxious than women (p < 0.01). Although there are higher levels of anxiety among students in clinical years than non-clinical years (p = 0.005), there is no significant difference in the levels of depression and satisfaction of electronic education (p > 0.05). On the other hand, increase in depression and anxiety rates, as well as poor internet quality, were associated with a decrease in the satisfaction of e-learning (p < 0.001). Additionally, 62.1% of people agreed that blended learning is better to be continued after the pandemic. Conclusion: Due to the high prevalence of depression and anxiety among students and its impact on e-learning satisfaction, it is recommended to establish effective strategies to provide support for medical students, especially during times of crisis.