Exercise, mental well-being and burnout in Thai medical students in 2020–2021: an online cross-sectional survey

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Within the Thai medical curriculum, its rigorous education framework, demanding schedules and high academic standards can contribute to psychological distress. Regular physical activity has consistently shown positive effects on mental health. The aim of the study was to investigate the association between exercise and psychological well-being, including depression, anxiety, and burnout, in Thai medical students, and factors related to insufficient exercise and depression. Methods The cross-sectional study was conducted among medical students in the university hospital during 2020–2021. Participants completed self-administered questionnaires consisting of demographic data, Godin-Shephard Leisure-Time Physical Activity Questionnaire, depression screening (9Q), Thai General Health Question-28 (4 domains: somatic symptoms, anxiety and insomnia, social dysfunction, severe depression), and Maslach burnout inventory (Emotional exhaustion (EE), Depersonalization (DP), Reduced Personal Achievement (rPA). Results Of the 404 participants, 50.5% were women, the mean age (SD) was 21.06 (1.8) years, and 52% were in clinical years. The prevalence of insufficient exercise was 59.6%, depression (30.2%), somatic symptoms (27.7%), anxiety (30.7%), insomnia (89.4%), social dysfunction (89.4%), high level of EE (32.4%), DP (21%), and rPA (56.7%). Insufficient exercise was associated with moderate to severe depression (OR 2.89, 95% CI 1.16–7.25), anxiety and insomnia (OR 1.56, 95% CI 1.01–2.43), social dysfunction (OR 2.51, 95% CI 1.31–4.78), burnout in part due to high rPA (OR 2.4, 95% CI 1.4–4.13), and study in clinical years (OR 1.91, 95% CI 1.28–2.87). After adjusted significant factors, only studying in the clinical year, social dysfunction, and burnout in part of rPA were related to insufficient exercise. Conclusions High rates of insufficient exercise, psychological challenges, and burnout were prevalent among medical students. To effectively address these issues, medical school should advise students to participate in regular exercise, promoting mental well-being and healthier lifestyles.