Stress and sleep quality among medical students in Bangladesh: a cross-sectional study

Medical students experience high levels of stress owing to their demanding academic environment, which can significantly impact their sleep quality. This study aimed to assess the status of stress and sleep quality among medical students in Bangladesh and identify the factors influencing these conditions.

This cross-sectional study included 280 undergraduate medical students selected by stratified random sampling from four medical colleges in Bangladesh. Data were collected using a self-report questionnaire covering sociodemographic details, stress- and sleep-related factors, the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale, and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index.

The study revealed that 65.7% of students experienced stress, which was categorized as mild (27.5%), moderate (22.1%), or severe (16.1%). Poor sleep quality was prevalent in 72.1% of students, with 48.2% being moderately poor sleepers and 23.9% being very poor sleepers. Factors significantly associated with stress included female sex, higher academic year, lack of physical activity, high parental expectations, academic concerns, lack of a doctor in the family, and parental influence in choosing medical education. Poor sleep quality was significantly linked to stress, female sex, hostel residency, increased screen time before sleep, late dinner, daytime naps, coffee intake, and late-night snacks.

This study highlights the high prevalence of stress and poor sleep quality among medical students in Bangladesh. Stress significantly contributes to sleep disturbances, and various lifestyle and academic factors exacerbate these issues. Targeted interventions, including stress management programs and the promotion of healthier sleep, are essential for improving students' well-being and academic performance.