A Cross-sectional Study among Undergraduate Medical Students Regarding Perception of Stress, Knowledge and Behavioural Changes at Teaching Institution in District Bijnor, Uttar Pradesh

Background: Students are a distinct group of individuals emerging from the most critical period of their lives, during which they have experienced numerous stressful situations. As their education progresses, students face more stressful events such as a more difficult syllabus, rigorous job assignments and projects and living in dormitories. These challenges must be dealt with effectively. Objectives: In this study, we aimed to determine the perception of stress level, knowledge and behavioural changes during stress among 1 st -year undergraduate medical students by a validated questionnaire. Materials and Methods: A total of 100 1 st -year undergraduate medical students participated in this cross-sectional study and completed the questionnaire. It was an online survey-based study. A validated questionnaire was used to ascertain the level of stress. Data were tabulated and presented by descriptive statistical tests such as mean, standard deviation and percentage. The inferential statistical test, such as the Chi-square test and Fisher’s exact test, was applied. Results: Among 1 st -year undergraduate medical students, moderate stress was more prevalent (81.0%) than high stress (19.0%). Male students were more likely to experience stress than female students. Conclusion: Academic stress is the psychological pressure, anxiety or distress experienced when facing academic challenges. This stress can lead to psychological symptoms like anxiety and depression. A mentor-mentee program should be initiated in every institution to encourage the students and relieve their stressful situation.