the dual challenge of psychological distress and insomnia: a multicenter study on the prevalence and academic impact among medical students

Students need proper sleep combined with good mental and emotional health to achieve better academic results. this research investigated the prevalence and academic impact of psychological distress and poor sleep quality among medical students in saudi arabia. the research team conducted a cross-sectional multicenter study with first- to fifth-year medical students from seven major public and private universities in riyadh, saudi arabia, between september 2023 and may 2024. the representative design strengthens the ability to apply the findings throughout the region. the researchers distributed survey questionnaires through online channels. the pittsburgh sleep quality index (psqi) assessed sleep quality, while the kessler psychological distress scale (k10) evaluated psychological distress. the research analyzed the relationships of demographic factors and lifestyle choices with academic performance (gpa), sleep quality, and psychological distress. the study involved 446 medical students, 56.5% of whom were female. the cumulative gpa of 51.6% of students ranged from 4.5 to 5.0. the results showed that 48.4% of students experienced severe psychological distress, primarily among female students and those who infrequently exercised or followed unhealthy eating patterns. the majority of students (77.8%) reported experiencing poor sleep quality. the study established that poor sleep quality was significantly associated with lower academic performance, even after controlling for demographic characteristics. the research found no direct relationship between psychological distress and gpa scores. this study provides a comprehensive and representative picture of medical students' challenges in riyadh through its multicenter approach and regional focus. the findings demonstrate the necessity for specific interventions that address sleep hygiene and mental health to improve academic results and overall well-being.