SAÚDE MENTAL DOS ESTUDANTES DE MEDICINA EM UM CENÁRIO PÓS COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the mental health of medical students. Isolation, fear of the disease, loss of loved ones, and academic changes have aggravated stress and anxiety. Studies show a high prevalence of depression and anxiety, impairing well-being and academic performance. Addressing these issues is crucial to avoid burnout and prepare future physicians for the challenges of the profession. To describe the impact on the mental health of medical students after the COVID-19 pandemic. An integrative review was carried out with articles from SciELO, PubMed, and LILACS, using the descriptors: "Covid" and "mental health" and "medical student". Articles in English, Portuguese, and Spanish on the consequences of COVID-19 on medical students were included. Studies outside the objectives and the post-pandemic period were excluded. A total of 1,905 articles were identified in the PubMed (1,711), SciELO (117), and LILACS (77) databases. After inclusion and exclusion criteria, 10 articles were selected. The mental health of students, already weakened by the high academic workload, worsened during the pandemic. Studies indicate that 78.5% had anxiety, 63.2% depression, and 48.6% stress, with women and young people being the most affected. Isolation, remote learning, and constant fear worsened the scenario, while emotional overload and academic dissatisfaction contributed. Physical activity alleviated symptoms, but alcohol consumption increased. Institutions should adopt continuous psychological support and address academic, emotional, and social factors. COVID-19 has worsened students' mental health, making it essential to implement psychological support programs and promote healthy habits.