Wellbeing and mental health among medical students in Indonesia: A descriptive study

Abstract

Background: Medical students face high pressures to perform academically, which may lead to poor psychological well-being, burnout, and even mental illness. Aims: This study aims to evaluate the mental health, degree of burnout and substance misuse among medical students in Indonesia in order to to build a system that supports the prosperity of future doctors. Methods: In February to March 2020, we conducted an online survey of Indonesian medical students to assess burnout (using Oldenburg Burnout Inventory, OLBI), minor psychiatric illness (General Health Questionnaire 12, GHQ12), and alcohol abuse (CAGE questionnaire). Results/Conclusion: A total of 1,729 students from 29 universities participated in the study; 93% felt disengaged, 95% felt exhausted, and 74% were identified to have mild psychiatric illness. We discuss potential factors that need to be explored in further research, including further concerns related to developments since the pandemic, and the need for potential interventions at both local and national levels to enhance the wellbeing of medical students.