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Abstract
Annotation: Medical education is widely acknowledged as a highly demanding and competitive environment that often predisposes students to significant psychological strain. Among undergraduate medical students, stress, anxiety, and sleep disturbances are common, frequently interrelated, and may impact both academic performance and overall well-being. This study evaluates the prevalence and severity of perceived stress, anxiety levels, and sleep quality among MBBS students using validated instruments, specifically the Perceived Stress Scale-10 (PSS-10) and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Data were collected from a representative cohort of medical students across various academic years, and statistical analyses were employed to determine correlations among stress, anxiety, and sleep disruption. Results indicated a high prevalence of moderate to severe stress, elevated anxiety scores, and poor sleep quality, with significant associations between heightened stress and impaired sleep patterns. These findings underscore the necessity of early identification and structured interventions aimed at mitigating psychological distress and promoting healthy sleep behaviors. The study highlights the importance of integrating mental health support systems within medical education curricula to improve students’ academic performance, personal resilience, and overall quality of life. Medical education is inherently demanding and competitive, subjecting undergraduate students to considerable psychological strain. Stress, anxiety, and sleep disturbances are highly prevalent among medical trainees and are frequently interconnected, often impacting cognitive performance, clinical decision-making, and overall personal well-being. This study aimed to comprehensively evaluate the prevalence, severity, and interrelationship of perceived stress, anxiety levels, and sleep quality among MBBS students using validated instruments, specifically the Perceived Stress Scale-10 (PSS-10) and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). A cross-sectional survey was conducted among students across preclinical and clinical years, with statistical analyses employed to determine correlations between stress, anxiety, and sleep impairment. Findings indicated a substantial proportion of students experiencing moderate to severe stress, elevated anxiety, and poor sleep quality, with significant associations observed among these variables. The study emphasizes the critical need for early recognition, structured interventions, and integration of mental health support within medical curricula to promote resilience, enhance academic achievement, and safeguard long-term psychological health.
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