Depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation in medical students

Abstract

Depressive symptoms affect a large part of the world's population as well as health professionals, especially medical students. These symptoms are also considered to be one of the risk factors for suicidal ideation and attempts. To this end, this study aims to identify the prevalence of depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation among medical students at the university. Method: A cross-sectional descriptive study carried out using a proportional stratified sample of 257 participants. Descriptive analyses were used to analyze the data in the general sample, by gender and period, with a 95% CI. Results: Female students had a higher prevalence of depressive symptoms in the first cycle of medical training. Final considerations: The importance of implementing strategies aimed at the prevention and promotion of student health in the final years of the medical course is highlighted.