Academic burnout and coping: A questionnaire based cross-sectional study among undergraduate students of a medical college in western Uttar Pradesh

Abstract

Background: Individuals enrolled in undergraduate medical programs exhibit a heightened susceptibility to academic burnout because the training involves heavy coursework, clinical duties, and intense expectations for academic success. Compared with their non-medical peers, those studying medicine often report greater stress and exhaustion. When students experience burnout, their academic success and mental health are both likely to suffer. Thus, to manage stress, adapting strategies are essential for students and adequate research that focuses on identifying ways to support them in reducing and managing burnout. Aim & Objective: 1) To evaluate the frequency of academic burnout in undergraduate medical student population; 2) To identify the specific stress-management techniques utilized by these individuals. Settings and Design: A cross-sectional anonymous survey, recruiting students from four professional groups of MBBS. Methods and Material: The sample size was determined according to burnout prevalence rates, resulting in a total of 220 completed surveys for data analysis. To measure the variables of interest, the MBI-SS (Maslach Burnout Inventory-Student Survey) and the Brief COPE inventory were administered. A semi-structured proforma was used to assess sociodemographic profile. Statistical analysis used: Jamovi (2.3.28) software and Microsoft Excel. Results: Nearly 35% of the students presented with high emotional exhaustion while over 65% of them had low professional efficacy. However, active coping was practiced by majority of them. Conclusions: Some of the students had high emotional exhaustion while more than 65% of them showed low professional efficacy. However, active coping was majorly practiced one.