Depression Among Medical Students at Sohag University

Introduction Depression is one of the most prevalent mental health disorders globally, significantly impacting individuals' quality of life, academic performance, and overall functioning. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), depression affects more than 264 million people worldwide, and it is considered a leading cause of disability. Among young adults, particularly students, the condition is increasingly common and often underdiagnosed and undertreated (1).

Medical students are at a disproportionately higher risk of depression compared to the general population due to the intense academic workload, pressure to perform, competitive environment, and exposure to human suffering during clinical training (2). A meta-analysis found that approximatel…