Investigating the Relationship between Sleep Disorders and Mental Health with Academic Performance in Medical Students at Abadan University of Medical Sciences

Background and Aims: Sleep disturbances and mental health issues are prevalent among medical students and can negatively impact academic performance. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between sleep disturbances, mental health, and academic performance in medical students at Abadan University of Medical Sciences. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional analytical study included 160 medical students at Abadan University of Medical Sciences. Participants completed standardized questionnaires to collect data on demographics, sleep disturbances (insomnia and hypersomnia), mental health (anxiety and depression), and academic performance . Result: Results indicated a significant negative correlation between sleep disturbances and academic performance (r=-0.734 for insomnia and r=-0.759 for hypersomnia, P < 0.001). Furthermore, there was a significant positive correlation between mental health and academic performance (r=0.571, P < 0.001), while anxiety and depression were negatively correlated with academic performance (r=-0.771, P < 0.001). Students living with their parents had significantly better academic performance compared to those living in dormitories (P < 0.001). Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study, sleep disturbances and mental health problems are directly associated with decreased academic performance in medical students. Addressing these factors and providing supportive and educational interventions can help improve students' academic performance.