Depressions, anxiety, stresses, and sleep quality among medical undergraduate students and its correlation with sociodemographic factors and academic performance

Background: Medical undergraduate students are exposed to intense academic and psychological stress, placing them at high risk for mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, and sleep disturbances, all of which can adversely affect academic performance. Aims and Objectives: This study aims to determine the prevalence of depression, anxiety, stress, and poor sleep quality among medical students and to analyze their correlation with sociodemographic characteristics and academic performance. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 384 MBBS students at Hind Institute of Medical Sciences, Sitapur, over 18 months. Psychological distress was measured using the depression, anxiety, and stress scale-42, and sleep quality via the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Academic performance was assessed using a validated 8-item scale. Statistical analyses included Chi-square tests, t-tests, analysis of variance, and multivariate logistic regression. Results: The prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress was 32%, 38%, and 45%, respectively, with 58% of students reporting poor sleep quality. A significant negative correlation was found between academic performance, severity of psychological symptoms, and poor sleep (P<0.001). Independent predictors of poor academic performance included low attendance (adjusted odds ratios [AOR]=3.42), poor sleep quality (AOR=2.71), moderate-to-severe depression (AOR=2.63), anxiety, stress, male sex, 2nd-year status, day scholar residence, and absence of siblings. Conclusion: Depression, anxiety, stress, and poor sleep are highly prevalent and significantly affect academic outcomes among MBBS students. Targeted mental health interventions, promotion of sleep hygiene, and academic support strategies are crucial to improving student well-being and performance.