Year: 2026 | Month: February | Volume: 16 | Issue: 2 | Pages: 178-183
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52403/ijhsr.20260221
Prevalence of Psychological Distress among Medical Students: A Screening Study Using GHQ-12
Khyati Nimavat1, Jayna Devalia2, Pratik Trivedi3
1Assistant Professor, Department of Community Medicine, GMERS Medical college, Junagadh.
2Associate Professor, Department of Physiology, GMERS Medical college, Valsad.
3Assistant Professor, Department of Anatomy, GMERS Medical college, Junagadh.
Corresponding Author: Khyati Nimavat
ABSTRACT
Background: Mental health problems among adolescents and young adults represent a significant public health concern. Medical students are particularly vulnerable due to the demanding nature of medical training. Early identification of psychological distress through screening tools is essential to promote mental well-being.
Objectives: To assess the prevalence of mental health problems among medical students and to screen for students at higher risk using the General Health Questionnaire-12 (GHQ-12).
Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 575 undergraduate medical students over a period of two months. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire comprising demographic details and the GHQ-12. A GHQ-12 score of ≥3 was considered indicative of higher risk for mental health problems. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square test, with a p-value <0.05 considered statistically significant.
Results: Out of 575 students, 204 (35.5%) had a GHQ-12 score ≥3, indicating higher risk for mental health problems. The distribution of GHQ-12 risk status did not show a statistically significant association with age, sex, or academic batch (p >0.05).
Conclusion: A considerable proportion of medical students experience psychological distress. Routine mental health screening and supportive interventions during medical training are essential to promote student well-being and resilience.
Key words: Mental health; Medical students; Psychological distress; GHQ-12