Abstract
Background: Medical students are one of the most vulnerable populations to anxiety and depression owing to the daily life
stress they are dealing with. The impact of these mental health challenges on academic life and performance is of great
significance.
The study aims to estimate the prevalence and determinants of depression and anxiety among medical students.
Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted by over 375 students of the University of Basrah, College of Medicine.
A structured questionnaire incorporated demographic characteristics and students' perceptions about possible risk factors. Two
scales (PHQ-9 and GAD-7) were used for data collection.
Result: out of 375 students, 29.2% were males, and 70.8% were females. The prevalence of anxiety was 42.7%, and depression
was 65.6%. The age, gender, academic stage and performance, workload, availability of free time, and lack of social support
showed significant association with anxiety. The age, accommodation arrangement, academic stage, workload, availability of
free time, and lack of social and academic support showed a significant association with depression.
Conclusion: There is a high prevalence of anxiety and depression among medical students, with widespread risk factors. Thus,
it requires coordinated actions and joining forces to find a proper solution addressing these challenges.
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