BURNOUT IN MEDICAL STUDENTS: CONTRIBUTING FACTORS AND IMPACTS ON MEDICAL EDUCATION – A LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Burnout syndrome is characterized by emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and a reduced sense of professional accomplishment, and is commonly observed in highly demanding work environments. Among medical students, the prevalence of this condition has increased significantly due to exposure to intense academic workloads, high performance expectations, and emotionally challenging experiences throughout training. This study aimed to analyze the prevalence of burnout among medical students, identify the main contributing factors, and discuss its potential impacts on medical education and future professional practice. This research consists of an integrative literature review conducted through searches in the PubMed, SciELO, and Google Scholar databases, using controlled descriptors and including studies published between 2021 and 2025. The findings indicate that factors such as excessive workload, competitive academic culture, perfectionism, sleep deprivation, and the lack of institutional psychological support play a significant role in the development of burnout among medical students. Additionally, affected students often present decreased academic performance, interpersonal difficulties, and depressive symptoms, which may persist into professional life. The review also highlights a lack of effective preventive strategies implemented by educational institutions. It is concluded that promoting mental health within academic environments, encouraging a balance between personal life and academic responsibilities, and implementing institutional policies focused on support and prevention are essential for the training of healthier, more empathetic, and emotionally prepared physicians. Further studies evaluating the effectiveness of targeted interventions are urgently needed.