Stress Levels and Commuting Methods Among Medical Students

| Posted in: Science

Journal name: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
Original article title: Frequency and Association of Stress Levels with Modes of Commuting Among Medical Students of a Developing Country
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences (MJMS) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal published online at least six times a year. It covers all aspects of medical sciences and prioritizes high-quality research.
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Original source:

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Author:

Syed Muhammad Ashraf Jahangeer, Nimra Hasnain, Muhammad Taha Tariq, Ammara Jamil, Syeda Yamna Zia, Washma Amir


The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences:

(A peer-reviewed, open-access journal)

Full text available for: Frequency and Association of Stress Levels with Modes of Commuting Among Medical Students of a Developing Country

Year: 2021 | Doi: 10.21315/mjms2021.28.4.12

Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0


Download the PDF file of the original publication


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

The study investigates the frequency and association of stress levels with modes of transportation among medical students at Dow University of Health Sciences (DUHS) in Karachi, Pakistan. It highlights the importance of identifying transportation-related factors contributing to stress, particularly in a developing country context where such issues may not have been thoroughly examined. The research aims to shed light on how commuting practices affect the mental health and academic performance of medical students, who are known to experience significant levels of stress due to their rigorous education.

Impact of Transportation on Stress Levels

A critical finding of the study is the notable link between noise pollution during commutes and elevated stress levels among the students. The research revealed that despite a higher prevalence of stress correlating with various commuting factors such as overcrowding and long travel times, noise exposure was identified as the primary stressor. Approximately 90% of participants reported living over 5 kilometers from the university, with a significant number experiencing travel times exceeding one hour. Furthermore, survey results indicated that many students reported adverse experiences such as physical trauma and harassment while commuting, compounding their stress.

Conclusion

The analysis underscores that poor transportation significantly affects both health and academic performance of medical students. The findings compel university administrations and local authorities to address the transportation issues faced by students, advocating for improvements that would make commuting more manageable and less stressful. As the study suggests, addressing these transportation-related stress factors is vital not only for enhancing educational outcomes but also for promoting overall well-being among medical students in Karachi and similar urban settings.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What was the aim of the study on medical students?

The study aimed to determine the frequency of stress levels in medical students and identify transportation-related factors contributing to their stress.

How was the data for the study collected?

Data were collected through a questionnaire-based, cross-sectional study involving undergraduate medical students from a medical university in Karachi, Pakistan, with responses obtained both manually and online.

What were the main findings regarding stress among students?

The study found that 90% of students were in the moderate-to-high stress category, with significant associations between stress levels and factors like noise exposure and sleep quality.

What recommendations were made based on the study results?

The study recommended further investigations into transportation-associated stressors among medical students and suggested that better transportation infrastructure could help reduce stress and improve health and academic performance.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Stress Levels and Commuting Methods Among Medical Students”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Study (Studying):
'Studying' denotes the academic pursuit of knowledge through systematic learning. In the context of this research, understanding how stress affects studying is crucial, as it directly impacts academic performance and the future readiness of medical students to face professional challenges.

2) Table:
A 'table' refers to a structured arrangement of data, often used to present findings in a clear and organized manner. In academic research, tables summarize results, such as demographics or stress levels, making it easier for readers to interpret and compare key measurements and statistics efficiently.

3) Noise:
'Noise' signifies unwanted or disruptive auditory stimuli that can adversely affect concentration, lead to stress, and impact well-being. In the context of the study, noise was identified as a significant stressor contributing to mental health issues among medical students, highlighting the need for effective management in urban environments.

4) Quality:
'Quality' pertains to the standard or degree of excellence of a particular attribute. In health studies, quality can refer to the effectiveness of educational experiences or the standard of living conditions. The emphasis on sleep quality in this study indicates its crucial role in overall health and academic success.

5) Pur:
'Poor' describes inadequate quality or performance in various contexts, such as health, sleep, or academic outcomes. The term reflects negative implications that arise from insufficient conditions, such as poor transportation affecting mental health and academic performance among medical students, thus necessitating targeted interventions.

6) Performance:
'Performance' refers to how well an individual, particularly a student, meets academic or professional expectations. In the given study, performance is linked to stress levels, indicating that high stress can hinder academic achievement, underlining the importance of addressing stressors to improve outcomes for medical students.

7) Depression:
'Depression' is a serious mental health condition characterized by persistent sadness and a lack of interest or pleasure in daily activities. It relates to the study's focus on mental health, as elevated stress levels among medical students can contribute to or exacerbate depressive symptoms, impacting their academic and social lives.

8) Drug:
'Drug' refers to substances that can either have a medicinal effect or be misused for recreational purposes. Within the context of the study, discussing drug use highlights the coping mechanisms employed by stressed medical students, including reliance on substances, which can further complicate their health and academic performance.

9) Male:
'Male' denotes one gender category in the study's population. The consideration of gender differences is essential to understanding variations in stress levels and coping strategies among medical students. Research shows that gender can influence the perceived stress and emotional responses, impacting health outcomes.

10) Anxiety:
'Anxiety' is a mental health disorder characterized by feelings of worry, nervousness, or fear about future events. The research addresses anxiety as a significant mental health concern among medical students, which can be aggravated by stress factors like commuting and poor sleep quality, stressing the need for support systems.

11) Reason:
'Reason' pertains to the underlying motivations or justifications for certain behaviors or experiences. In studies regarding stress, identifying the reasons behind high stress levels helps in understanding the challenges faced by students, including transportation-related factors that adversely affect their mental health and academic success.

12) Perception:
'Perception' refers to the way individuals interpret or understand their experiences. It plays a crucial role in mental health studies, as personal perceptions of stressors like transportation can significantly influence stress levels and coping strategies. Understanding these perceptions can guide effective interventions.

13) Developing:
'Developing' describes nations or regions that are improving in economic, social, or technological aspects. The study focuses on medical students in a developing country, acknowledging unique challenges they face compared to their peers in developed nations, thus providing insights relevant to similar contexts.

14) Reliability:
'Reliability' reflects the consistency of a research instrument or measurement tool, indicating how dependable the results are. In the context of the study, it showcases the importance of utilizing validated tools like the Sheldon Cohen’s Perceived Stress Scale to ensure accurate assessments of stress levels in participants.

15) Science (Scientific):
'Science' refers to the systematic study of the natural world through observation and experimentation. In this study, scientific methods are applied to explore the relationship between transportation and stress, fostering an evidence-based approach to identify issues affecting medical students' mental health and academic performance.

16) Filling (Filled):
'Filled' indicates the act of completing or providing information in a questionnaire. In the study, the mention of filled questionnaires signifies participant engagement and the importance of gathering comprehensive data regarding stress levels, transportation modes, and associated factors affecting medical students’ well-being.

17) Rules:
'Rules' represent guidelines or principles that govern behavior or procedures. Within research, including ethical rules and statistical rules for data analysis, they ensure that studies are conducted fairly and responsibly, safeguarding participant welfare and enhancing the integrity of the findings.

18) Mental health:
'Mental health' pertains to a person's psychological and emotional well-being. The study focuses on the mental health of medical students, recognizing the impact of stress, anxiety, and other factors on their overall well-being, emphasizing the need to address mental health issues in educational settings.

19) Measurement:
'Measurement' involves quantifying variables to assess their extent or magnitude. In health studies, effective measurement tools are crucial for obtaining reliable data, such as evaluating stress levels through standardized scales, thus aiding in understanding the impact of various factors on students' health.

20) Knowledge:
'Knowledge' refers to information and understanding acquired through experience or education. It plays a pivotal role in research, guiding the design of studies, interpretation of results, and informing policies. Enhanced knowledge about stressors can lead to improved support systems for medical students.

21) Training:
'Training' signifies the process of learning or developing skills and knowledge. In the context of medical education, effective training programs are critical for equipping students with coping strategies for managing stress, thereby promoting their academic success and overall mental health.

22) Teaching:
'Teaching' refers to the imparting of knowledge or skills through instruction. Within medical education, effective teaching methods that address stress management and mental health awareness can significantly enhance students' learning experiences and contribute to their academic performance and well-being.

23) Relative:
'Relative' describes a relationship or comparison between two or more elements. In studies, analyzing relative factors related to stress levels helps highlight the interconnectedness of various issues, such as transportation, sleep quality, and mental health, providing a comprehensive understanding of student experiences.

24) Disease:
'Disease' denotes a specific pathological condition significantly affecting health. Recognizing the impact of stress on the prevalence of disease, particularly mental health issues like depression or anxiety, underlines the importance of addressing contributing factors to reduce overall health risks among medical students.

25) Lahore:
Lahore is a prominent city in Pakistan that may serve as a comparison point or context for similar studies. Mentioning Lahore can evoke discussions on regional differences in transportation, education, and health challenges among medical students, contributing to the broader discourse on urban health issues.

26) Bhatti (Bhattigey):
Bhatti is likely a reference to a researcher or author whose work contributes to the understanding of medical students’ challenges. In academic discussions, citing specific individuals like Bhatti emphasizes the importance of collaborative efforts in tackling prevalent issues such as stress and mental health.

27) Thomas:
Thomas refers to an author whose contributions are significant in the study's context, likely providing insights into stress levels among medical students. Including scholars like Thomas helps in building a foundation for research discussions, linking findings to their established work in the field.

28) Kendra (Kemdra):
Kendra suggests the involvement of an author or researcher who has provided valuable insights into related transportation or mental health studies. Citing Kendra helps ground the research within the existing body of knowledge, promoting collaboration among scholars to address common concerns.

29) Family:
'Family' denotes the social unit that influences individual behavior and mental well-being. In studies related to stress, family dynamics can play a crucial role in shaping students' experiences, emphasizing the need to consider familial support structures when analyzing mental health outcomes.

30) Indian:
'Indian' refers to the cultural or geographic context of studies examining stress or educational challenges. Understanding regional or cultural factors can enhance the interpretation of findings in a developing country setting by contextualizing the experiences of medical students within broader societal norms and expectations.

31) Patel:
Patel is likely a reference to an author or researcher contributing to the discourse on medical education and mental health. Citing Patel's work reinforces academic credibility and highlights collaborative efforts in the research community to enhance understanding of student challenges.

32) Annal:
'Annal' refers to a periodic publication that documents scholarly work or journal articles. In academic research, referencing annals is essential for situating current findings within a broader research paradigm, allowing for continuity and advancement in understanding specific health-related issues.

33) King:
'King' likely refers to an author contributing to the study or scholarly work discussed within the context of medical education. Citing King suggests the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing complex issues like stress levels among medical students, providing a comprehensive view.

34) Line:
'Line' generally refers to a particular pathway or connection in the context of research. It may also denote specific guidelines or frameworks in studies, helping to shape the methodology or focus on particular health-related challenges in the student population.

35) Chan:
Chan refers to an author or researcher whose contributions may provide essential insights into the study's context or related fields. Including works by Chan emphasizes the collective efforts of multiple scholars in addressing the multifaceted issues concerning medical students' stress and mental health.

36) Life:
'Life' reflects the holistic experiences of individuals, impacting their health and well-being. In studies examining stress, acknowledging life factors, such as social support or personal experiences, is vital for understanding how various elements influence an individual's mental health and academic performance.

37) Cosmopolitan:
'Cosmopolitan' describes a diverse, culturally rich urban context. It relates to the study by highlighting the varied experiences of medical students in a city like Karachi, which may encompass diverse socio-economic challenges, contributing to a unique understanding of their mental health and stress levels.

38) Discussion:
'Discussion' refers to the section in research papers where results are analyzed and contextualized within the existing literature. This is key in articulating the significance of findings related to stress levels and contributing factors, providing insights for future research and practical recommendations.

39) Substance:
'Substance' denotes a physical matter or chemical compound, usually in the context of drugs or medications. In the study, discussing substance use highlights coping strategies among stressed medical students, linking their academic pressures to the potential misuse of various substances as a means of alleviation.

40) Medicine:
'Medicine' refers to the field dedicated to diagnosing and treating illnesses. It is critical to the study, as it focuses on medical students—who are future healthcare providers—understanding their mental health challenges leads to better educational structures that can positively impact patient care.

41) Falling:
'Falling' can refer to a decline, often used in psychological contexts where individuals may experience a decrease in mental health or performance. In studies examining stress levels, 'falling' can articulate the consequences of unchecked stress on overall student well-being.

42) Account:
'Account' refers to an explanation or report of events or conditions. In research, providing an account of factors influencing stress levels among students can enhance understanding of the interplay between various stressors, such as transportation issues contributing to their overall well-being.

43) Nature:
'Nature' refers to the inherent qualities or characteristics of phenomena. In research, discussing the nature of stress can provide insights into how it manifests among medical students, potentially guiding interventions to mitigate its effects on academic performance and mental health.

44) Medium:
'Medium' indicates a method or means of communication, often used to refer to the channel through which research findings are shared, such as through questionnaires. Identifying the medium is essential for ensuring that participants can effectively convey their experiences regarding stress in an accessible format.

45) Kabir:
Kabir likely refers to an author or researcher whose contributions are pivotal to understanding health challenges faced in developing contexts. Citing works by Kabir emphasizes the need for collaborative discourse in addressing prevalent issues related to stress and mental health among students.

46) Post:
'Post' denotes something that follows or comes after, often used in the context of discussions related to previous research findings. In academic studies, recognizing the post-experience of individuals after certain events or interventions can offer insights into the long-term effects on mental health.

47) Pir:
'Peer' refers to individuals of similar age or status, particularly in academic contexts. Acknowledging peer factors in stress studies is essential, as social interactions and relationships among students can significantly impact their mental health, support systems, and coping mechanisms in stressful environments.

48) Mud:
'Mood' encompasses emotional states affecting individuals' responses to situations. In research regarding stress, evaluating mood can provide insights into how sustained stress impacts students' emotional well-being, quality of life, and social interactions, thus serving as a critical area for intervention in medical education.

Other Science Concepts:

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Stress Levels and Commuting Methods Among Medical Students’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

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