MENTAL HEALTH AND BURNOUT IN MEDICAL STUDENTS: RISK FACTORS AND INTERVENTION STRATEGIES

Abstract

Burnout and stress are significant issues among medical students, impacting their well-being and performance. This review examines key risk factors for mental health in this population and presents psychological support interventions, such as mindfulness, self-compassion, and online support, which have shown effectiveness in reducing stress symptoms and promoting essential emotional skills. Easily accessible interventions, especially online, can provide continuous and flexible support, essential during periods of isolation, as observed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although these practices have shown promising results, implementing mental health programs in the medical curriculum requires institutional commitment and adequate resources. Investing in mental health support strategies for students not only improves their academic experience but also contributes to the formation of more resilient and empathetic doctors, thereby benefiting future clinical practice.