Investigation of the depressive effect of the pandemic on medical students using the Beck Depression Scale

Authors : Abdulkadir Bozteke, Abdullah Coşkun, Tekin Karsligil

Pages : 25-29

View : 49 | Download : 78

Publication Date : 2023-12-30

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Purpose: The pandemic has posed significant challenges globally, affecting healthcare systems, economies, and mental health, particularly among healthcare workers.This research focuses on understanding the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on medical students in the last three years of their training. Materials and Methods: The study involved 226 medical students. To measure depression, the Beck Depression Scale was utilized. Additional data was collected on demographics, sleep patterns, and educational aspects. Results: The study group was evenly split by gender, with 113 males and 113 females. Students were distributed across 4th, 5th, and 6th grades almost equally. A notable portion (31.9%) had been infected with COVID-19. Living situations varied, with many living with family, in dormitories, or in student housing. A significant majority (81.8%) felt practical training should continue during the pandemic. Changes in sleep patterns were reported by over half of the participants, and the average Beck Depression Scale score was 14.96. Fourth-grade students exhibited higher levels of depression compared to those in the 5th and 6th grades. Interestingly, contracting COVID-19 did not significantly alter depression levels. Conclusion: The demands of medical education have been intensified by the pandemic, leading to increased depressive symptoms and altered sleep patterns among medical students. The findings underscore the need for supportive measures to mitigate these challenges during such critical times.
Keywords : Covid 19, BECK Depresyon Envanteri, Tıp Fakültesi