Prevalence and determinants of burnout Syndrome and Depression among medical students at Sultan Qaboos University: A cross-sectional analytical study from Oman

Perceived stress and burnout syndrome in chiropractic students at a South African university during the COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE

Higher stress levels may be associated with decreased academic success and physical and psychological well-being in chiropractic students. This study aimed to determine the perceived stress and burnout of chiropractic students at the University of Johannesburg during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS

This was a quantitative, exploratory study utilizing a self-administered online questionnaire distributed to chiropractic students (n = 246) at the university. The questionnaire consisted of 3 main components: demographics, the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), and the Maslach Burnout Inventory-Student Survey (MBI-SS). Data were analyzed utilizing exploratory factor analysis, Cronbach alpha for reliabilities, and descriptive statistics for mean scores being interpreted using subscales pertaining to the 2 survey tools.

RESULTS

The response rate was 63.82% (n = 157) with the PSS-10 indicating participants obtained a total mean score of 25.08 (average stress). For the MBI-SS categories, participants scored 18.96 out of 30 for exhaustion, 10.31 out of 30 for cynicism, and 22.46 out of 36 for professional efficiency; higher scores of exhaustion and cynicism and lower scores of professional efficiency are indicative of higher degrees of burnout. Statistically significant differences for both tools were noted in relation to age and academic year with higher values indicated with increased age and progression in the program.

CONCLUSION

The results indicate that chiropractic students experienced moderate levels of stress but higher burnout than other health sciences student populations when compared to current literature. Age and progression in the program appear to have a negative influence on both these factors.

Applying the Panarchy Framework to Examining Post-Pandemic Adaptation in the Undergraduate Medical Education Environment: A Qualitative Study

Phenomenon: The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated an abrupt shift to online medical education, disrupting learning across knowledge, skills, and social connections. Post-pandemic, medical schools must evaluate how these disruptions shaped student experiences to optimize the return to in-person learning. Approach: This cross-sectional qualitative study explored medical students' perceptions of their learning environment during the post-pandemic reintegration period in Oman. Fifty-four preclinical and clinical students participated in six focus group interviews. Content analysis identified key topics characterizing students' perceptions of change and change processes in the post-pandemic learning environment. The panarchy framework, developed to characterize complex adaptive systems in nature, was used to frame the results. Findings: The return to in-person environments presented a mix of renewed connectivity, involving collaborative benefits alongside transitional adjustment strains. Five major topics characterizing student perceptions of change and change processes in their post-pandemic learning environment were identified: learning skills, developing clinical competence, faculty interactions, physical atmosphere, and social connections. Managing academic schedules and cognitive load as the learning environment opened challenged students' learning skills. Learners valued a renewed opportunity for interactive application of knowledge through collaboration, patient contact, and empathy skill-building to feel prepared for future practice. Returning to in-person instruction renewed a sense of community and peer support networks disrupted by pandemic isolation. Some students continued to struggle with study-life imbalance and felt ill-equipped to handle post-pandemic demands. Improved access to student support and wellness services was emphasized to ease transitional stresses. Students defined an ideal learning climate as supportive, active, personalized, relevant, challenging, accessible, and collaborative. Insights: While pandemic disruptions posed challenges, they provide opportunities to strengthen the educational system's resilience moving forward. Our findings highlight an opportunity for medical educators and learners to capitalize on the innovations that emerged during this period, integrating technology with interactive learning activities and reconnecting students with the core values of the medical profession. Applying the panarchy framework to frame this adaptive process could enable the tracking of multi-level interactions within the medical education environment and the evaluation of interventions targeted at identified areas of concern. Further exploration to achieve complete mapping of specific environmental domains onto the panarchical cycles merits future investigation to build integrated resilience frameworks.

High risk of burnout syndrome and associated factors in medical students: A cross-sectional analytical study

INTRODUCTION

Although research on burnout syndrome in medical students has increased in recent years, results are inconsistent about which factors are associated with a high risk for burnout syndrome. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of high risk of burnout syndrome and to identify factors associated with burnout in medical students in preclinical and clinical training.

METHOD

A cross-sectional study was conducted at the University of Kragujevac, Serbia. The Maslach Burnout Inventory Student Survey and an epidemiological questionnaire on basic socio-demographic and academic characteristics were used. Statistical evaluation was performed through logistic regression analysis, using Odds Ratio (OR) and 95% Confidence Interval (CI).

RESULTS

Among medical students, no statistically significant differences were found in the prevalence of high risk of burnout syndrome in preclinical (14.8%) and clinical grade (15.1%), p > 0.05. High risk for burnout syndrome in preclinical study years was independently associated with the female sex (adjusted OR = 0.41, 95%CI = 0.19-0.91, p = 0.028), and cigarette smoking (adjusted OR = 2.47, 95%CI = 1.05-5.78, p = 0.038). The high risk of burnout syndrome was associated with sedatives use (adjusted OR = 4.03, 95%CI = 1.27-12.73; p = 0.018) only in clinical years medical students. The frequency of alcohol consumption was correlated with the high risk of burnout syndrome in medical students in both preclinical and clinical training, but without statistical significance (both p for trend < 0.1).

CONCLUSION

There was a significant prevalence of burnout among medical students, with some modifiable associated factors revealed.

Understanding physician burnout in Oman: current status, cultural influences and future directions

Amidst the current global surge in physician burnout, a compelling need arises for precisely targeted research and interventions that cater to specific contexts, illuminating a path towards professional well-being. This brief communication analyses recent studies on physician burnout in Oman, critically evaluating the findings, cultural factors, methodological limitations and future growth opportunities. Distinct elements of Omani culture, encompassing attitudes towards mental illness, gender roles and patient expectations, can distinctly influence how burnout presents in this population. Advanced mixed-methods research integrating cultural insights, biomarkers and longitudinal tracking is needed to characterise burnout in Omani physicians. The findings can play a significant role in developing comprehensive interventions, at both a systemic and an individual level, that promote well-being of physicians while specifically aligning with the cultural values of Oman.

Is There a Burnout Epidemic among Medical Students? Results from a Systematic Review

Background and Objectives: Medical students represent the ideal target group for promoting mental health and mental wellbeing, being exposed to specific risk factors, such as the content of medical training, the exposure to sickness and death, and a stressful academic routine. Medical students report high levels of cynicism and emotional exhaustion, which represent two of the essential features of burnout syndrome. In this systematic review, studies assessing the levels of burnout among medical students through validated tools worldwide were analyzed. Materials and Methods: A systematic review has been performed in order to identify studies: (1) focusing on samples of medical students; (2) evaluating burnout syndrome using validated tools; (3) providing prevalence data on burnout; and (4) written in English. Results: Out of the 5547 papers initially obtained, 64 were finally included in the analysis. The sample sizes ranged from 51 to 2682 participants. Almost all studies had a cross-sectional design; the Maslach Burnout Inventory and its related versions were the most frequently used assessment tools. The prevalence of burnout, which was stratified based on gender and academic stage, ranged from 5.6 to 88%. Burnout was mostly predicted by thoughts of stopping medical education, negative life events, lack of support, dissatisfaction, and poor motivation. Conclusions: The prevalence of burnout syndrome in medical students is quite heterogeneous, reaching a peak of 88% in some countries. However, several predictors have been identified, including negative life events or poor motivation. These findings highlight the need to develop preventive interventions targeting the future generation of medical doctors, in order to improve their coping strategies and resilience styles.

Investigating Impostorism Among Undergraduate Medical Students at Sultan Qaboos University: A Questionnaire-Based Study

Background Imposter syndrome or phenomenon (IP) is a behavioral phenomenon observed in successful individuals where they fail to recognize and internalize their achievements. It is often accompanied by feelings of self-doubt, anxiety, depression, and worries of being exposed as frauds, with the impostors often attributing their achievements to external factors like good luck and timing. The presence of IP among medical students is gaining more attention, with studies reporting a strong association with burnout phenomenon, anxiety, and depression. Objectives This study sought to determine the prevalence of IP among Omani medical students and classify the levels of severity among the sample. Methodology This was a cross-sectional, observational study conducted at a public university in Muscat, Oman. The Clance Impostor Phenomenon Scale (CIPS), a validated publicly available questionnaire, was used to determine whether students exhibited impostorism. Students who scored 63 or higher in the CIPS were classified as impostors. In addition, students were also classified based on the severity of their impostorism. As per the CIPS, scores between 41 and 60 indicate mild impostorism, scores between 61 and 80 indicate moderate impostorism, and finally scores between 81 and 100 indicate severe impostorism. Results A total of 276 students participated (M 34%, F 66%), of which 144 (52.2%) were found to have IP with 12.7% exhibiting severe impostorism.  Conclusion The results show that IP is present in significant frequencies among medical students; further studies are needed to address this problem.

Stress Factors, Stress Levels, and Coping Mechanisms among University Students

Aims

To explore university students' levels of stress, stressors, and their coping style.

Methods

A cross-sectional correlational design with a convenience sample (n = 676) of university students who completed the Student-Life Stress Inventory (SSI) and Coping Strategies Indicator (CSI) was used. Findings. Overall, two-thirds of the participant reported moderate levels of stress. Students with chronic illness, living alone, low CGPA, and having exams today experienced a statistically higher mean level of stress. Students who are living alone used the "avoidance" method more significantly and the "social support" method significantly less compared with students who are living with their families and friends.

Conclusion

This study concurs with others that university students are prone to distress. To our knowledge, this is the first study in the region to explore the students' coping skills. Some of the employed coping and associated factors could be used to lay the groundwork for evidence-based prevention and mitigation.

The relationship between the burnout syndrome and academic success of medical students: a cross-sectional study

The burnout syndrome may affect academic achievement, but research on burnout and academic success of medical students is sparse. This research aimed to estimate the prevalence of high risk of burnout in students of medicine and to investigate its association with academic performance. It included 760 full-time medical students who completed the survey (response rate = 90.9 %). A significant independent predictor for high burnout risk in students with lower grade point average (GPA) was male gender (adjusted OR=2.44; 95 % CI=1.14-5.23; P=0.022). Among students with higher GPA, high burnout risk was associated with the use of sedatives (adjusted OR=6.44; 95 % CI=1.80-22.99; P=0.004).

Prevalence of depression, anxiety and burnout in medical students at the University of Namibia

Background

There is an increased prevalence of depression, anxiety, and burnout among medical students worldwide with no information from Namibia.

Aim

This study aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with depression, anxiety, and burnout among medical students at the University of Namibia (UNAM).

Methods

A quantitative descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted utilising a specially designed questionnaire for the study and standardised instruments to evaluate depression, anxiety, and burnout.

Results

Of the 229 students in this study, 71.6% were female and 28.4% were male. The prevalence of depression, anxiety, and burnout was 43.6%, 30.6%, and 36.2%, respectively. The prevalence of emotional exhaustion (EX), cynicism (CY), and professional efficacy (EF) was 68.1% (n = 156), 77.3% (n = 177) and 53.3% (n = 122), respectively. In the final regression model, participants with a current psychiatric illness were more likely to screen positive for depression (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 4.06, confidence interval [CI] 1.28-12.91; p = 0.02) and anxiety (aOR: 3.63, CI: 1.17-11.23; p = 0.03). Emotional exhaustion and cynicism were significantly associated with female gender (EX: aOR, 0.40, CI: 0.20-0.79; p = 0.01) (CY: aOR, 0.42, CI: 0.20-0.91; p = 0.03).

Conclusion

More than one in three medical students at the UNAM were either depressed or burnt out.

Contribution

This is the first study to highlight the mental health needs of medical students at the University of Namibia.

Factors associated with academic burnout and its prevalence among university students: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to evaluate the current state of academic burnout among Chinese college students and its influencing factors.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study of 22,983 students was conducted using structured questionnaires and the Maslach Burnout Inventory General Survey on sociodemographic characteristics, educational process, and personal aspects. Multiple variables were statistically evaluated using logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

The total score of the students' academic burnout was 40.73 (± 10.12) points. The scores for the reduced personal accomplishment, emotional exhaustion, and cynicism were 23.63 (± 6.55), 11.20 (± 6.05), and 5.91 (± 5.31), respectively. Students with academic burnout accounted for 59.9% (13,753/22,983). Male students had higher burnout scores than female students, upper-grade students had higher burnout scores than lower-grade students, and students who smoked had higher burnout than non-smokers during the school day.

CONCLUSIONS

More than half of students experienced academic burnout. Gender, grade, monthly living expenses, smoking, parents' education level, study and life pressures, and the current degree of professional knowledge interest significantly impacted academic burnout. An effective wellness program and an annual long-term burnout assessment may sufficiently reduce student burnout.

Cumulative Ecological Risk and Academic Burnout in Chinese College Students: A Moderated Mediation Model

This study explored the relationship between cumulative ecological risk exposure and academic burnout among Chinese college students and the mediating and moderating effects of neuroticism and gender, respectively. A total of 580 college students were selected as participants. They completed a battery of questionnaires that measured cumulative ecological risk, neuroticism, and academic burnout. The results showed that: (1) cumulative ecological risk was positively related to neuroticism and academic burnout; (2) cumulative ecological risk positively predicted academic burnout; (3) neuroticism partly mediated the relationship between cumulative ecological risk and academic burnout; and (4) gender moderated the effect of cumulative ecological risk and academic burnout. A high level of cumulative ecological risk had a greater impact on neuroticism among women, compared to men. These findings advance our current knowledge of the specific effects of cumulative ecological risk on academic burnout and the underlying internal mechanisms of this relationship. Furthermore, this study provides a constructive perspective on preventing and reducing academic burnout among college students.

Burnout rates among Lebanese pre-final and final year medical students during the COVID-19 pandemic: A multi-centered survey-based study

BACKGROUND

Burnout among medical students has always been a major concern.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate changes in the prevalence rates of burnout among Lebanese pre-final and final year medical students while taking into consideration the impact of coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) on both the academical and clinical experiences.

METHODS

This is a multi-centered, survey-based, cross-sectional study conducted in October 2021. The Copenhagen Burnout Inventory questionnaire was used on 120 medical students from three different medical schools in Lebanon.

RESULTS

The overall burnout prevalence was 40.01%. When further dividing it into domains, 39.36% of students had personal burnout, 41.52% had work-related burnout, and 39.16% had pandemic-related burnout. Theoretical learning and clinical training were reported to be affected in respectively 66.70% and 71.70%. However, only 10.00% of the students have regretted choosing medicine and 67.50% felt comfortable to get to the next academic level.

CONCLUSION

High levels of burnout were reported among pre-final and final year medical students with a subsequent negative impact on their academic life and clinical training. Medical schools should start adopting a conscious view of how to guide medical students in finding adequate coping mechanisms during these times of crisis.

The role of chronic physical illness and job dissatisfaction on burnout’s risk among medical interns in Oman: a study of prevalence and determinants

Background

Medical interns are at risk of burnout due to several organizational and individual factors. There is scarcity of studies exploring the role of chronic physical illness and job dissatisfaction on burnout experience among medical interns. This study examined the prevalence of burnout syndrome and explored whether chronic physical illness and job dissatisfaction could independently predict burnout syndrome among medical interns in Oman. This cross-sectional study was conducted among a random sample of medical interns enrolled in the Omani internship program. One-hundred and eighty interns participated in this study and filled in a self-reported questionnaire that included Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI), Job Satisfaction Survey (JSS), and data related to physical illness.

Results

The prevalence of burnout syndrome was 15%. Having a physical illness (OR = 7.285, 95% CI = 1.976–26.857, P = 0.003) and job dissatisfaction (OR = 16.488, 95% CI = 5.371–50.614, P = 0.0001) was significant independent predictors of high levels of the EE subscale. In addition, having a physical illness (OR = 4.678, 95% CI = 1.498–14.608, P = 0.008) and being dissatisfied (OR = 2.900, 95% CI = 11.159–7.257, P = 0.023) were significant independent predictors of the high DP subscale. Having physical illness was independent predictors of the low personal accomplishment subscale (OR = 0.258, 95% CI = 0.088–0.759, P = 0.014).

Conclusions

Burnout syndrome is prevalent among medical interns in Oman. Job dissatisfaction and chronic physical illness are risk factors for burnout syndrome. Internship programs should consider these factors when designing burnout mitigative strategies.

Classroom Digital Teaching and College Students' Academic Burnout in the Post COVID-19 Era: A Cross-Sectional Study

The continued development of digital technology and its overuse in teaching and learning in the post-epidemic era have brought about digital health risks, which are associated with academic burnout among college students. This study focused on the relationship between classroom digital teaching and students' academic burnout and designed the Classroom Burnout Inventory (CBI) and the Classroom Burnout Causes Inventory (CBCI) to conduct a cross-sectional survey of 206 Chinese university students. Correlations and regression analyses were conducted between key factors and burnout values through a path model of "Digital teaching-Teaching & learning process-Causes subjects-Burnout". The results of the study show that an inappropriate and excessive use of unintegrated digital teaching and learning technologies in the classroom was positively correlated with academic burnout among college students. Burnout levels and the three manifestations were not correlated with students' gender, grade, and major. In terms of causes, the academic burnout of college students was more correlated with their own personal reasons than with external factors such as teachers, universities, and environments. Integrating digital technology platforms, enhancing teacher leadership in the digital classroom, and strengthening peer support and students' psychological resilience are all meaningful explorations of academic burnout prevention strategies.

Internet addiction: Prevalence and relationship with academic burnout among undergraduates during widespread online learning

PURPOSE

We aimed to investigate the prevalence of Internet addiction (IA) and explore its related factors among undergraduates during widespread online learning in China.

DESIGN AND METHODS

The online survey was conducted in April 2020. The Young diagnostic questionnaire and academic burnout scale were respectively used to measure IA and academic burnout.

FINDINGS

A total of 28.4% of 7562 participants developed IA, which correlated with academic burnout. Additionally, positive attitude and practice towards COVID-19 and exercise were protective factors of it.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

IA was associated with academic burnout, and better cognition of COVID-19 and positive lifestyles might reduce its risk.

Mental health and wellbeing among Egyptian medical students: a cross-sectional study

Background

Medical students are prone to experience high levels of stress during their studies, which can lead to burnout and mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression, that can affect their academic performance and ability to practice. We therefore conducted an online survey to collect data on demographics, sources of stress, mental health problems, burnout, and substance use in 547 medical students from two universities in Cairo. We used the Oldenburg Burnout Inventory (OLBI), the General Health Questionnaire 12 (GHQ-12), and the CAGE questionnaire.

Results

Our results indicated that 16% of participants were diagnosed with a mental illness while in medical school, with 88% screening positive for burnout on the OLBI, 63% reaching the threshold as cases on the GHQ-12 and 9% screening positive on the CAGE questionnaire. There was a statistically significant positive correlation between scores on the OLBI and the GHQ-12.

Conclusions

Our study indicated that there were very high levels of psychological distress (burnout, mental illness) among medical students, with high rates of disengagement and exhaustion.

The magnitude and effect of work-life imbalance on cognition and affective range among the non-western population: A study from Muscat

The temporal relationship between work-life balance/imbalance, occupational burnout, and poor mental health outcomes have been widely explored. Little has been forthcoming on cognitive functioning among those with work-life imbalance. This study aimed to explore the rate of work-life imbalance and the variation in neuropsychological functioning. The relationship between affective ranges (anxiety and depressive symptoms) and work-life balance was also explored. The target population in this study are Omani nationals who were referred for psychometric evaluation. The study employs neuropsychology measures tapping into attention and concentration, learning and remembering, processing speed, and executive functioning. Subjective measures of cognitive decline and affective ranges were also explored. A total of 168 subjects (75.3% of the responders) were considered to be at a work-life imbalance. Multivariate analysis showed that demographic and neuropsychological variables were significant risk factors for work-life imbalance including age and the presence of anxiety disorder. Furthermore, participants indicating work-life imbalance were more likely to report cognitive decline on indices of attention, concentration, learning, and remembering. This study reveals that individuals with work-life imbalance might dent the integrity of cognition including attention and concentration, learning and remembering, executive functioning, and endorsed case-ness for anxiety.

Psychometric Properties of the Emotional Exhaustion Scale (ECE) in Chilean Higher Education Students

The main objective of this study was to estimate the psychometric properties of the Emotional Fatigue Scale (ECE) in a sample of 1308 Chilean university students and confirm the unifactorial structure of the scale. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were carried out. The ECE assessment had an internal consistency of 0.893 (Cronbach's Alpha). An exploratory factor analysis with Varimax rotation and a confirmatory analysis were performed, obtaining the factor that explains 52.3% of the variance. The results indicated that the ECE has adequate psychometric properties for use with higher education students in Chile. The ECE scale has good psychometric properties to be applied in the Chilean university context. Its usage may be very relevant to contribute to higher education institutions to emphasize students' mental health and prevent possible severe pathologies in future professionals. It is suggested to use the ECE scale together with the EES-Int, which is the only interpretation table for this instrument.

Associated Determinants Between Evidence of Burnout, Physical Activity, and Health Behaviors of University Students

Risk behaviors and signs of burnout are associated with substantial health losses and university dropouts. Physical activity can be an effective approach to reduce these factors. The objective of this study was to analyze aspects related to health behaviors, physical activity, and signs of burnout in university students and their association with physical activity. The probabilistic cluster sample consisted of 3,578 regularly enrolled undergraduate students from UFPR in Curitiba, based on a population sample of 24,032 university students. The students completed the MBI-SS and NCHA II instruments. Descriptive statistics were used to identify demographic indicators and characteristics of the university environment. For the proportion of subjects with respective confidence intervals (CI = 95%), contingency tables involving the chi-square test (χ²) were used. The prevalence of signs of burnout was estimated in punctual proportions accompanied by the respective confidence intervals (CI = 95%). To analyze the associations between the independent variables and signs of burnout, the Hierarchical Logistic Regression was used through an analysis adjusted by the other independent variables involved in the models (CI = 95%). Results showed that the prevalence of individuals who showed signs of burnout was 40.4%. The hierarchical multiple regression model pointed to: female sex (OR = 1.30; 1.11-1.51); age between 20-24 years (OR = 1.51; 1.25-1.83); and 25-29 years (OR = 1.69; 1.27-2.24); being single (OR = 2.67; 1.01-7.10); presenting regular/poor health perception (OR = 1.59; 1.13-2.22), belonging to Human Sciences courses (OR = 1.37; 1.14-1.64); attending 2nd or 3rd year (OR = 1.34; 1.12-1.61); poor academic performance (OR = 5.35; 4.11-6.96); mean (OR = 2.08; 1.78-2.43). We conclude that academics showed a high prevalence of health risk behaviors and correlate and diagnose emotional problems and signs of burnout. Signs of burnout were significantly associated with the practice of physical activity in its three dimensions; however, in the adjusted analysis for demographic indicators, the characteristics of the university environment, and health behaviors, physical activity was not significant for the model.

Workplace bullying, occupational burnout, work-life imbalance and perceived medical errors among nurses in Oman: A cluster analysis

AIM

To explore whether different profiles exist in a cohort of nurses regarding demographic and occupational outcomes.

BACKGROUND

Nurses will face many occupational problems, including workplace bullying, work-life imbalance, burnout and medical errors.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study included 232 nurses working in a hospital in Oman. Data were collected from December 2018 to April 2019 using convenience sampling. Instruments included work-life balance questions, the Negative Acts questionnaire-revised questionnaire, Oldenburg Burnout Inventory and Stanford Professional Fulfillment Index. Cluster analysis, t test, chi-squared and Fisher's exact tests were used for data analysis.

RESULTS

Cluster 1 (n = 108) was characterized as 'low-risk on medical error, burnout and workplace bullying but high-risk in work-life imbalance' group. Cluster 2 (n = 124) was labelled as 'high-risk on medical error, work-life imbalance, burnout and workplace buying' group.

CONCLUSIONS

Two groups of nurses in Oman are facing occupational problems differently. Nurses in Cluster 1 need attention to work-life imbalance. However, nurses in Cluster 2 need attention on all occupational problems.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING MANAGEMENT

Findings call on the nursing stakeholders in Oman to identify factors related to occupational problems, to provide consultation services to reduce inter-personnel conflicts, and to review nurses' working hours to avoid burnout and resume a balanced work-life.

Intentional mentoring: maximizing the impact of underrepresented future scientists in the 21st century

Mentoring is a developmental experience intended to increase the willingness to learn and establish credibility while building positive relationships through networking. In this commentary, we focus on intentional mentoring for underrepresented mentees, including individuals that belong to minority racial, ethnic and gender identity groups in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine (STEMM) fields. Intentional mentoring is the superpower action necessary for developing harmony and comprehending the purpose and value of the mentor/mentee relationship. Regardless of a mentor's career stage, we believe the strategies discussed may be used to create a supportive and constructive mentorship environment; thereby improving the retention rates of underrepresented mentees within the scientific community.

Prevalence of burnout in medical students in China: A meta-analysis of observational studies

ABSTRACT

This meta-analysis aimed to estimate the prevalence of burnout among medical students in China.A systematic search from the following electronic databases: China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wangfang database, VIP database, Chinese biomedical literature database, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Google Scholar was independently conducted by 2 reviewers from inception to September 2019. The data were analyzed using stata software Version 11. Heterogeneity was assessed using I2 tests, and publication bias was evaluated using funnel plots and Egger's test. The source of heterogeneity among subgroups was determined by subgroup analysis of different parameters.A total of 48 articles with a sample size of 29,020 met the inclusion criteria. The aggregate prevalence of learning burnout was 45.9% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 38.1%-53.8%). The prevalence rate of high emotional exhaustion was 37.5% (95% CI: 21.4%-53.7%). The percentage was 44.0% (95% CI: 29.2%-58.8%) for low personal accomplishment. The prevalence rate was 36.0% (95% CI: 23.0%-48.9%) in depersonalization dimension. In the subgroup analysis by specialty, the prevalence of burnout was 30.3% (95% CI: 28.6%-32.0%) for clinical medicine and 43.8% (95% CI: 41.8%-45.8%) for other medical specialties. The total prevalence of burnout between men and women was 46.4% (95% CI: 44.8%-47.9%) and 46.6% (95% CI: 45.5%-47.6%), respectively. The prevalence of burnout with Rong Lian's scale was 43.7% (42.1%-45.2%), and that with the other scales was 51.4% (50.4%-52.4%). The prevalence rates were 62.9% (61.3%-64.6%), 58.7% (56.3%-61.1%), 46.5% (42.9%-50.2%), and 56.0% (51.6%-60.4%) from Grades 1 to 4, respectively. There was a statistically significant difference among the different grades (P = .000).Our findings suggest a high prevalence of burnout among medical students. Society, universities, and families should take appropriate measures and allot more care to prevent burnout among medical students.

Effect of Interventions on Learning Burnout: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Objectives: This study aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of all intervention for learning burnout by meta-analyzing their effects.

Methods: Relevant studies that had been published up to September 18, 2020, were identified through a systematic search of the PubMed, Web of Science, the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and Wan Fang databases. Eligible studies included randomized control trials of any learning burnout intervention conducted among students. The Jadad scale was used to evaluate the quality of the study. Random-effect meta-analyses, subgroup analyses, meta-regression analysis, and sensitivity analysis were conducted. Funnel plots and Egger's tests were used to evaluate publication bias. Duval and Tweedie's non-parametric trim-and-fill method was used to adjust the effect of publication bias.

Results: Of the 5,245 articles found, 39 met the inclusion criteria for the systematic review. There were 3,400 students, including 1,847 students in the intervention group and 1,553 in the control group. A meta-analysis of 44 studies showed that the interventions were effective. Subgroup analyses were conducted according to education, scales, intervention measures, and intervention time. The results showed that, compared with the control group, the learning burnout scores of undergraduates, secondary vocational students, and middle school students were significantly lower. Based on different scales, all interventions were also effective. The funnel plot was asymmetric and consistent with the results of Egger's test. The trim-and-fill method was used, and seven missing studies were merged to obtain a symmetric funnel plot.

Conclusions: This meta-analysis indicated that learning burnout interventions are effective. The subgroup analyses showed that group counseling is the most widely used, exercise intervention is probably the most effective, and 8 weeks or more is the appropriate intervention time. An integrated intervention study based on the factors of learning burnout adds value. More studies are needed to supplement the results in the future.

Overlap of burnout-depression symptoms among Chinese neurology graduate students in a national cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

The overlap of burnout and depression is a phenomenon that can effectively reflect the psychological state of a group. However, whether burnout is a type of depression is still debated in current research. The high incidence of burnout and depressive symptoms among medical students indicates that it is urgent to provide appropriate health services for them. However, the proportion of burnout and depression in the overlapping symptoms experienced by medical students, and the characteristics of the relative influencing factors, remain unclear. Therefore, we addressed these issues for neurology graduate students in China.

METHODS

Using data from a cross-sectional survey of Chinese neurology graduate students, a diagnostic model was established according to their burnout and/or depression symptoms. Burnout was assessed by using the Maslach Burnout Inventory. Depression symptoms were assessed with a two-item depression screening tool for primary care evaluation of mental disorders. Univariate analyses with chi-squared tests were conducted to assess associations between variables. Multinomial logistic regression models were used to analyze the effects of multiple factors on dependent variables. The factors included demographic information and three medical-study related problems.

RESULTS

In total, 32.2% of surveyed students evidenced overlapping burnout and depression symptoms. Students with depressive symptoms tended to be included in the burnout students' category. In the regression model, being unmarried, having children, and career choice regret were related to students who had only burnout, while the students with overlapping symptoms were affected by more factors such as family income, the consideration of dropping out once.

CONCLUSIONS

The symptoms and related factors of burnout and depression among Chinese neurology postgraduates have obvious overlap and show a significant trend. The occurrence of depressive symptoms among medical students is closely related to whether they are burned out. Students with only burnout were common, but students with only depressive symptoms were uncommon. Finally, burnout may be a pre-depression state.

Prevalence and determinants of burnout syndrome and depression among medical students at Qassim University, Saudi Arabia

Objectives:

To investigate the prevalence and determinants of burnout syndrome and depression among medical students at Unaizah College of Medicine (UCM), Qassim University, Qassim, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA).

Methods:

A cross-sectional study of all Saudi medical students studying at UCM, Qassim University, Al Qassim, KSA, between February to March 2020.

Results:

Of the total 305 students sampled, 153 (50.2%) fit the category of depression. Concerning burnout, only 5.6% of the total population met the Maslach Burnout Inventory diagnostic criteria for burnout, with those determined to have burnout having ranked high on the emotional exhaustion and cynicism subscales, and low on the academic efficacy subscale. Male was strongly associated with burnout, while female gender and raising children were strongly associated with the presence of depression. Emotional exhaustion and high cynicism as determinants of burnout elevate the risk of depression.

Conclusion:

Our results highlight the high rate of depression and burnout, as well as the need for psychological intervention programs at medical schools to prevent the deterioration of student’s mental health that has been associated with advancement in medical school.

Burnout and its associated factors among medical students of Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to assess the prevalence of burnout syndrome and its associated factors among medical students at Jazan University, Jazan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 440 randomly selected medical students at Jazan University. The questionnaire used for this study was based on the Copenhagen Burnout Inventory.

Findings

The overall prevalence of burnout was estimated at 60.2% (95% CI 55.6–64.8). The prevalence was higher for females (64.1%) than for males (56.2%) but without statistically significant differences (p > 0.05). On average, the students scored the highest averages in the personal burnout category, followed by the study-related and client-related burnout categories. In the multivariate analysis, a lower age (beta = −3.17, p = 0.026), female (beta = −0.896, p = 0.016), and having better burnout knowledge (beta = 0.710, p = 0.025) predict significantly higher personal burnout.

Practical implications

It is necessary to implement strategies to reduce the incidence of burnout among medical students for the sake of a better quality of life for future doctors.

Originality/value

There is a high prevalence of burnout among Jazan’s medical students.

Prevalence of burnout among health sciences students and determination of its associated factors

Burnout is a major issue among healthcare students and a public health issue in general. Indeed, the consequences of student burnout are as complex as other mental distress factors, such as those concerned with smoking and alcohol consumption, or an unhealthy lifestyle.  This study aimed to determine the prevalence of burnout among health sciences students and to determine its associated factors. This is a cross-sectional descriptive study conducted among 368 students of a Tunisian institution using the French validated version of the MBI-SS. The prevalence of burnout was 64.4%. The presence of a diagnosed health problem, a diagnosed mental disorder or sleep problems were associated with burnout. Students who live alone are significantly the most emotionally exhausted (p=0.010) and the most cynical (p=0.033). Students who had a low socio-economic level are significantly more cynical than those who had a medium or high socio-economic level (p=0.032). Performing leisure activities and practicing physical activities were associated with emotional exhaustion (p=0.007, p= 0.008, respectively).In our study, burnout is prevalent among Tunisian health sciences students. Many factors were found to be associated with this syndrome. These findings reinforce the need to establish early preventive strategies to encounter this problem and its consequent risks.

Predictive factors of burnout syndrome in nursing students at a public university

Abstract Objective: To identify the prevalence and analyze the existence of predictive factors of burnout syndrome in nursing students of a public university unit. Method: A quantitative, descriptive, and cross-sectional study. Data were collected from two instruments: a sociodemographic instrument and the Maslach Burnout Inventory - Student Survey. Simple and multiple logistic regression models were adjusted to assess the association between variables. Results: There were 100 students who participated in the research, of which 20% presented burnout syndrome. Second (p = 0.036) and third year students (p = 0.046), those using medication (p = 0.002) and those considering dropping out (p = 0.001) were significantly associated with burnout. Only students who were thinking of dropping out of the course (p = 0.025) maintained a significant association in the multiple logistic regression model, which means that the probability of an individual from the population from which the sample was extracted presenting burnout syndrome was higher in this variable. Conclusion: The burnout syndrome prevalence corresponded to 20%. The predictors of burnout were: second and third years of the course, use of medication and thinking of dropping out from the course.

Burnout syndrome should not be underestimated

OBJECTIVES

Burnout syndrome can be seen among health professionals at every stage of their careers. The incidence of burnout syndrome among health care professionals has increased in recent years and varies between countries and depending on different areas of specialization and work units. It is known that burnout syndrome significantly affects the work and social life of individuals. We aimed to investigate the effect of burnout syndrome on trauma and infection.

METHODS

The study was conducted in the Alanya Alaaddin Keykubat University, Faculty of Medicine, Training and Research Hospital. All health professionals working at the hospital were included in the study. The Maslach Burnout Inventory was applied to the participants, who were asked about infective disease and trauma history over the past year.

RESULTS

The total burnout rate was 77.8% among participants. We found that the rate of trauma and infective disease history was significantly high in employees who had burnout syndrome (p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Burnout syndrome is a common and important problem among health professionals that also has adverse effects on people's daily life, especially increasing the incidence of infection and trauma.

Exploring burnout and depression of Thai medical students: the psychometric properties of the Maslach Burnout Inventory

OBJECTIVES

To examine the psychometric properties of the Maslach Burnout Inventory-Student Survey (MBI-SS) Thai version and to determine the frequency of burnout and correlation between burnout and associated factors.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted among undergraduate medical students using convenience sampling (n=545, 76.1% response rate, female 52.1%). Data were collected by a self-report survey. The MBI-SS was translated in Thai and tested for internal consistency using Cronbach's coefficient alpha. A confirmatory factor analysis was performed using as fit indices of the chi-square and degree of freedom ratio (χ²/df), Comparative Fit Index (CFI), the Goodness of Fit Index (GFI), the Non-normed Fit Index (NNFI), Akaike information criterion (AIC) and the Root Mean Square Error of Approximation (RMSEA). Spearman and Kendall's tau-b were used to identify correlations between burnout, depression and other factors.

RESULTS

Interrater reliability was acceptable with Kappa of 0.83. Confirmatory factor analysis demonstrated good fit indices (χ²/df=197.62/83, CFI=0.97, GFI=0.95, NNFI=0.96, AIC=271.62 and RMSEA=0.06). Burnout had a weak, positive association with the PHQ-9 (r=0.294, df=2, p< 0.001). The screening depression score had a significant, modest positive association with emotional exhaustion (r=0.469, df=4, p<0.001) and cynicism (r=0.411, df=4, p< 0.001), and a weak inverse association with professional efficacy (r=-0.273, df=4, p< 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The Thai version of the MBI-SS had adequate psychometric properties among Thai medical students and can be used to assess burnout among undergraduate medical students in Thailand. Burnout was associated with risk for depression. Further studies on other associated factors contributing to depression are suggested.

Burnout among healthcare providers in the complex environment of the Middle East: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Burnout is a syndrome characterized by emotional exhaustion, increased depersonalization, and a diminished sense of personal accomplishment due to chronic emotional stress at work. Burnout impacts job satisfaction, job performance, vulnerability to illnesses, and interpersonal relationships. There is a gap in the systematic data on the burden of burnout among healthcare professionals from different sectors of healthcare in Middle Eastern countries. Our objective was to examine the burden of burnout among healthcare providers in the Middle East, how it was assessed, which sectors were included, and what interventions have been used.

METHODS

Articles were found through a systematic review of search results including PubMed, Web of Science (Thomson Reuters), and PsycINFO (EBSCO) using search terms reflecting burnout in Middle Eastern countries among populations of healthcare providers. Studies were included if they examined a quantitative measure of burnout among healthcare providers in the Middle East.

RESULTS

There were 138 articles that met our inclusion criteria for this systematic review. Studies focused on burnout in the Middle East among physicians (N = 54 articles), nurses (N = 55), combined populations of healthcare workers (N = 22), and medical students (N = 7). The Maslach Burnout Inventory was the most common tool to measure burnout. Burnout is common among physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, with prevalence estimates predominantly ranging between 40 and 60%. Burnout among healthcare providers in the Middle East is associated with characteristics of their work environments, exposure to violence and terror, and emotional distress and low social support.

CONCLUSIONS

Burnout is highly prevalent among healthcare providers across countries in the Middle East. Previous studies examining burnout in this region have limitations in their methodology. More thoroughly developed epidemiologic studies of burnout are necessary. Health system strengthening is needed in a region that has endured years of ongoing conflict, and there is an urgency to design and implement programs that tackle burnout among health professionals.

Intervention for burnout among chemistry education undergraduates in Nigeria

Objective

Methods

Conclusion

Burnout Syndrome Among Primary Care Physicians in Oman

Objectives

Medical professionals are exposed to many job stressors everyday, which can lead to psychological disturbances as well as burnout syndrome. We sought to assess the level of burnout among primary care physicians (PCPs) in Oman and explore risk factors for its development.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional, analytical study among a random cluster sample of 190 PCP working in Muscat, Oman. Indices of burnout (emotional exhaustion (EE), depersonalization (DP) and personal accomplishment (PA)) were noted using the Maslach Burnout Inventory-Human Services Survey (MBI-HSS). We also used a questionnaire to obtain sociodemographic and job characteristics data. We used a binary logistic regression model and both unadjusted and adjusted odds ratios for statistical analysis.

Results

The prevalence of burnout in all three dimensions was 6.3%. High levels of MBI-HSS subscales were reported on EE, DP and PA with 17.8%, 38.2%, and 21.5%, respectively. Logistic regression analysis revealed that working over 40 hours per week was the most important risk factor for burnout among PCPs.

Conclusions

A total of 6.3% of PCPs working in urban areas in Oman suffered burnout. Long working hours was strongly associated with high occupational burnout. Solutions to eliminate or decrease the rate of burnout involve institutional changes, primarily respecting weekly working hours, and in more severe cases psychotherapy help is very important.

Perceived stress and coping strategies among ICU nurses in government tertiary hospitals in Saudi Arabia: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

No study has examined the stress level and coping strategies among critical care nurses in Saudi Arabia.

OBJECTIVES

Examine perceived stress and coping behaviors among nurses in intensive care units in Saudi Arabia, and the influence of cop.ing mechanisms on stress.

DESIGN

Descriptive cross-sectional.

SETTING

Two tertiary training hospitals in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Nurses from cardiac, surgery and pediatric intensive care units responded to an online survey. Perceived Stress Scale-10 (PSS-10) and the Brief COPE Inventory were used as primary research tools. Multivariate methods were used to analyze the data.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Stress levels, coping strategies, and associated factors.

SAMPLE SIZE

154 nurses.

RESULTS

The majority of the respondents reported a moderate level of stress in the past month (87.0%). Mean (SD) scores for nurses working in the cardiac ICU indicated significantly higher levels of stress compared to surgical ICU (18.18 [3.88] vs 6.17 [3.21], P=.025). Belief in religion was the most common coping behavior while the use of substances was the lowest (mean scores [SD] 6.70 [ 1.72] vs 2.22 [0.81]). In the multivariate analysis, behavioral disengagement (P=.016) and self-blame (P less than .001) intensified the PSS-10 score, whereas acceptance (P=.048) reduced the PSS-10 score.

CONCLUSION

The additional knowledge that behavioral disengagement and blaming aggravate stress can serve as the basis in formulating work-related stress reduction strategies among nurses caring for critical patients.

LIMITATIONS

The use of self-reports, convenience sampling, and selected demographic factors may have limited the scope and generalizability of the findings and induced social desirability bias.

CONFLICT OF INTEREST

None.