India

Abstract

Considered rigorous and demanding over its 5 and half year course, Medical training in India is completed by roughly 75,000 students yearly. Many studies have shown that medical students in India face a high risk of burnout and related mental health consequences. Comparatively, students being trained in modern medicine have poorer sleep quality than those in traditional medical schools. A nationwide survey noted a high prevalence of burnout symptoms along with increased incidence of mental health conditions and related consultations. The covid pandemic has exacerbated this situation with medical students reporting high levels of stress and anxiety. Student led initiatives and colleges have attempted to alleviate medical students’ distress and burnout. However, there are no systematic interventions. Ensuring medical student wellness requires a multitiered approach at individual, group, institutional, and policy level. This chapter brings forward various suggestions for improving medical student wellness in India.