Perceived Stress and its Influence among Undergraduate Dental Students in Lahore: A Cross-Sectional Study

OBJECTIVES: The main aim of this study was to quantify the perceived stress among dental undergraduate students and identify the factors that influence their performance and health. METHODOLOGY: The study involved 316 BDS students from 6 dental colleges in Lahore. The study, data entry, and analysis were completed in a year. Stress was quantified using a modified Dental Environment Stress (DES) questionnaire consisting of 38 questions for dental students. RESULTS: The main sources of stress in the present study were five factors: assigned workload, self-efficiency belief, faculty and administration matters, and patient treatment, followed by pressure of clinical performance. The findings were similar to different dental education systems across the world. The results of this study support the evidence in the previous literature, indicating that dental students are exposed to various work-related and academic stressors that may negatively affect their health. CONCLUSION: Students have to learn a lot and develop professional expertise rapidly. Students must understand the profession's nature and the study environment before applying. Conducting entrance interviews to assess the candidates' interest and suitability is a good idea. Establishing student advisors, counselors, and a faculty advising system can provide valuable support. KEYWORDS: Stress, mental stress, perceived stress, undergraduate dental students