The outcomes of this research reveal notable differences in demographic and clinical info between medical and engineering students, particularly in respect of depression, anxiety, and stress levels. The higher mean age of engineering students, coupled with a greater male ratio, suggests that these demographic factors may influence the psychological health of students in these faculties. Previous studies are consistent with our data, particularly with regard to perceived stress. Differences may also be due to variations in regional stressors specific to education and post-education working life
9-12.
The notable difference in the proportion of students describing that their current department was not their first choice may reflect the pressures and expectations placed on students in both faculties. The higher percentage of engineering students who repeated grades and reported no academic expectations could indicate a lack of engagement or motivation, which may contribute to their overall stress levels 13-15. This outcome is in accordance with literature suggesting that academic pressures can lead to increased psychological distress among students 16,17.
The results from the Epworth Sleepiness Scale indicate that medical students experience greater daytime sleepiness, which can be associated to the nature of studies and the attributed stress 18-20. The significant differences in the Maslach Burnout Inventory scores between the two faculties highlight the emotional exhaustion and desensitization experienced by engineering students, which may be linked to their academic environment and expectations 21,22.
The HADS scores reveal that medical students experience lower levels of anxiety, depression, which may be indicative of the support systems and coping mechanisms available within the medical faculty 23-25.
The phenomenon of Maslach depersonalization, alongside heightened anxiety and depression rates, is particularly pronounced among engineering students. This disparity may be attributed to several drivers inherent in academic environment and the nature of engineering education. Engineering students often face intense academic pressure, which is exacerbated by a competitive atmosphere that prioritizes high performance and technical proficiency. Studies indicate that academic stress significantly correlates with increased levels of depression and anxiety, particularly in fields demanding rigorous analytical skills and problem-solving abilities 9,12,26. The stressors associated with engineering curricula, including heavy workloads, tight deadlines, and the necessity for continuous self-assessment, contribute to feelings of helplessness and burnout, which are central to the concept of depersonalization as described by Maslach 27.
Furthermore, the gender dynamics within engineering programs may also have a role in the observed mental health disparities. Research suggests that male students, who constitute a significant portion of engineering cohorts, may experience different stress responses compared to their female peers, potentially leading to higher rates of depersonalization and emotional exhaustion 28. The lack of academic expectations and support systems in engineering disciplines can further exacerbate these issues, as students may feel isolated and undervalued, leading to increased anxiety and depressive symptoms 9,26. In contrast, medical students often benefit from structured support networks and a more collaborative learning environment, which can mitigate the adverse effects of academic stress 9,29. This contrast highlights the need for focused interventions to identify the unique challenges faced by engineering students, particularly in fostering resilience and coping strategies to combat academic stress and its psychological ramifications.
The implications of these findings are critical for educational institutions, particularly in engineering faculties, where the mental well-being of students is paramount for academic success and future professional efficacy. Addressing the high rates of academic stress, anxiety, and depression through comprehensive support systems, mentorship programs, and resilience training could significantly enhance the educational experience for engineering students. By fostering an environment that prioritizes mental health and well-being, institutions can not only improve academic outcomes but also get ready students for the challenges they will face in their professional life.
Living arrangements of students also play a decisive role in their mental health. The majority of students from both faculties living with family may provide a support system that can mitigate stress levels 30,31. However, the differences in the percentages of students living in student houses and dormitories suggest that the living environment may also contributing to overall wellness of students, as those living in more communal settings may experience different stressors compared to those living with family 32,33.
The prevalence of fibromyalgia among medical and engineering faculty students, as indicated by the findings of 16.1% (n=46) and 11.7% (n=25) respectively, reflects a concerning trend that aligns with broader observations in the general population. Fibromyalgia is recognized as a chronic pain syndrome that significantly impacts quality of life, affecting approximately 3% to 6% of the general population, with higher rates reported in specific subgroups, such as women and individuals with chronic stress conditions 34,35. The rates observed in your study are notably higher than the general population prevalence, which suggests that students, particularly in high-stress academic environments, can be put into at a heightened risk of developing fibromyalgia. This is consistent with findings that indicate medical and engineering students experiencing higher grades of depression, anxiety, and stress, which are known contributors to the onset of fibromyalgia 36,37.
Moreover, the lack of significant difference in fibromyalgia rates between medical and engineering students suggests that the stressors associated with academic life, rather than the specific demands of medical training, may be a common factor influencing the development of fibromyalgia symptoms across disciplines. Previous studies have highlighted that university students, particularly those in demanding fields, are vulnerable to fibromyalgia due to factors such as chronic stress, sleep deprivation, and lifestyle choices 38. The prevalence of headaches and GI problems among students with FMS further emphasizes the impact of stress on physical health, as previous studies have shown a strong correlation between stress and somatic symptoms among students 39-41. The info from our study contribute to the literature shows that fibromyalgia is not only concerns the general public, but also a significant issue among students in higher education, necessitating focused interventions to address wellness and mental health in these populations 37,42.
The findings regarding FMS highlight the need for focused interventions to identify the psychological and physical health of students in both faculties. The higher perceived stress levels among students with FMS suggest that these individuals may require additional support and resources to manage their symptoms effectively 43-45. The significant differences in anxiety and depression levels among students with FMS further emphasise the importance of identifying mental health issues in the academia 46-48.
In conclusion, the results of this article make a significant contribution to the expanding academic literature, emphasising the necessity for targeted interventions that address the specific challenges encountered by students across diverse academic disciplines. By elucidating the complex relationship between academic stress, mental health and academic performance, educational institutions can more effectively support their students in attaining both academic success and general well-being. Future research should investigate the long-term effects of stress on academic performance and the efficacy of various coping strategies employed by students across different disciplines.