IJSR International Journal of Scientific Research 2277 - 8179 Indian Society for Health and Advanced Research ijsr-8-3-18268 Original Research Paper DEPRESSION AMONG MEDICAL STUDENTS OF A GOVERNMENT MEDICAL COLLEGE OF BIHAR Sinha Dr. March 2019 8 3 01 02 ABSTRACT

Background: Depression among medical students is an area of concern, more so in todays demanding era of advancements in medical sciences and henceforth the related stress. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of depression among medical students. Aim: To study the prevalence of depression among medical students. Materials and Methods: A cross–sectional study was conducted with a stratified random sample size comprising of 200 medical students of Anugrah Narayan Medical College and Hospital, Gaya, Bihar after obtaining Ethical Committee approval. Students were assessed using a specially constructed semi–structured proforma, and Beck depression inventory (BDI). Data was evaluated using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS Inc. version 17.0). Results: The overall prevalence of depressive symptoms was found to be 41%. 30% of the students had mild and moderate degree of depression while a significant percentage 11% had major depression. The prevalence of depression was comparatively less among 1st and 2nd year medical students (27% and 33%, respectively). Conclusions: Depression is highly prevalent among medical students in this area. Our findings emphasise importance of screening and psychiatric counselling of this vulnerable population.