An evaluation of graduate student stress levels, stressors experienced, and resource awareness at a university for medical sciences

Objective: Health-science-related graduate students face many responsibilities, have to balance multiple conflicting factors to succeed and are often adversely impacted by university expectations that graduate students require fewer resources to handle the demands of higher education. The purpose of this study is to survey graduate student stress levels, significant stressors experienced, and utilization of institutional resources at a southern university. Methods: An explanatory mixed-methods study was conducted with 431 students. Participants completed survey measures related to the following areas: demographics, perceived stress (PSS-10), graduate stressors (GSI-r), and resource awareness. After completing the survey, participants were asked to participate in follow-up focus groups. Results: Students had a mean PSS-10 score of 18.9, or moderate stress. Students were most familiar with the Student Wellness Programs (21.4%) and Health Clinics (12.4%). The focus groups yielded valuable information on how students describe graduate student stress. The impact advisors have on stress and the accessibility and communication of the currently available resources. Conclusion: Significant stress levels in health-science-related graduate students is a population-level public health concern that requires a thorough response through university program support and awareness building.