Understanding and Addressing Medical Student Burnout: A Global Perspective

Medical students are the backbone of the future medical workforce, responsible for both individual and population health. With an aging global population, the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the increasing computerization and roboticization of medicine, doctors will require more flexibility, foresight, and courage than ever before. It is crucial that their training prepares them for the challenges ahead. However, recent research has found alarmingly high levels of stress and burnout among these individuals, leading to more students dropping out or leaving the profession early.

Global Perspectives on Medical Student Burnout

This volume presents research findings on the rates of burnout in medical students from around the world and provides ideas for a model of care to help educators and individuals take steps towards better student wellbeing. The first section covers the development of medical teaching, likely future directions of healthcare and the role of doctors, the current global situation in high-, middle-, and low-income countries, and how we measure and define burnout.

Case Studies from Around the Globe

The second section analyzes case studies from countries across the globe, reviewing regional themes of burnout, mental health symptoms, and stressors. This section provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges faced by medical students worldwide, highlighting common issues and unique regional challenges.

Student Voices and Future Directions

The third section hears from the medical students themselves, considering circumstances such as studying abroad, or studying with health conditions, and looks at potential interventions and good practice for the future, including the role of universities and institutions, and advice to medical students on how to look after themselves.

A truly international collaboration with a focus on medical student mental health and wellbeing, this book will be of interest to medical education professionals, occupational health physicians, and medical practitioners, as well as researchers, medical students, and trainees. It serves as a valuable resource for those seeking to understand and address the growing issue of burnout among medical students, ultimately aiming to improve the wellbeing and retention of these vital professionals.