EXPLORING BURNOUT SYNDROME IN MEDICAL STUDENTS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY OF PSYCHOLOGICAL DETERMINANTS AND ACADEMIC PERSPECTIVES

BACKGROUND: Over 40% of medical students are affected by burnout worldwide. Academic and clinical stress, depression, and lack of motivation increases rate of burnout, while personal motivation and steadfastness can help reduce it. Consequences include poor mental and physical health, decreased academic performance, and professional growth. Burnout rates vary geographically, with higher rates in Latin America, Asia, and the US compared to Europe. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross sectional, descriptive survey was employed in Central Park Medical College, Lahore in May-June 2025 in order to study the prevalence and reasons associated with burnout among medical students. A validated questionnaire was designed to collect data on sociodemographic variables, academic factors, and burnout levels among medical students. The survey assessed various aspects including age, gender, year of study, living situation, average study hours per day, clinical rotation attendance, and perceived support from peers or faculty. A team of 4th year MBBS students conducted the research. A standardized scale was used to evaluate burnout. It assessed emotional exhaustion, physical and mental fatigue, and disengagement from academic work. Medical students from all years were selected for this research. Descriptive and inferential statistics, including t-tests and ANOVA were used to assess data and identify significant differences in burnout levels and their contributing factors across various groups of medical students . A interrelationship study was used to examine and evaluate the link between burnout and academic factors. The results highlighted the prevalence and determinants of burnout among medical students, with statistical analysis applied at a threshold of p < 0.05, offering guidance for the development of early interventions and support mechanisms. RESULT: Socio-demographic characteristics of the respondents showed that majority (73.2%) of them were feeling emotionally drained, 76.8% reporting physical and mental fatigue, and 64.3% experiencing less interest in academic work. According to burnout scale male students(13.09) and those in advanced years of study, particularly 5th-year students, reported significantly higher burnout levels. Burnout was inversely correlated with age, while no significant associations were observed with self-study hours or perceived support. Notably, nearly 80% of students fell into the exhausted and disengaged categories, highlighting the urgent need for early interventions and support systems within medical education to prevent escalation and promote student well-being. CONCLUSION: The study concluded that majority (80%) students of Central Park were experiencing burnout symptoms during their academic years, with concerning implications for their well-being and academic performance. Male students particularly 5th year, were significantly more affected. The findings highlighted the need for early interventions and support systems within medical education to reduce burnout and promote student well-being