Anxiety and depression in medical interns at a public university in Mexico City

This study determined the prevalence of anxiety and depression symptoms in 304 undergraduate medical interns (IMs) from a public university in Mexico City, using the SCL-90-R. It was found that 49% of the IMs presented symptoms of depression and 43% anxiety symptoms, with moderate and moderately severe levels being the most frequent. By sex, women showed a higher prevalence of anxiety (53%) and depression (49%), while men presented fewer symptoms, although severe depression was more common in them (5.9%). The results suggest that work overload and academic pressure contribute to the risk of functional decline, highlighting the need for early detection and psychological support to prevent complications and foster a healthy academic environment.