Artificial Intelligence And Mental Health In Medical Education: Examining Its Role In Academic Support, Stress Reduction, And Burnout Among Medical Students”

Abstract

Introduction: It is well-known that medical education is both academically challenging and psychologically distressing and tends to increase stress, anxiety, burnout rates among students. As technology rapidly changes, artificial intelligence (AI) has become an effective tool in medical education, which can provide possible advantages in both academic support and mental health management.

Objective: The study aimed to examine the role of AI tools in providing academic support, to analyze their effectiveness in reducing stress, and to investigate their impact on anxiety and burnout among medical students.

Methodology: The study design was a quantitative cross-sectional study, and 200 medical students (50 each selected in public and private medical colleges) were used as the participants. Data was collected via a structured questionnaire which contained scales on academic support, stress, anxiety, burnout and AI usage. The data were analyzed using SPSS with descriptive statistics and inferential analysis (independent samples t-test).

Finding: The results showed that AI adoption was very high, and 80% of students were using AI tools to support their academic activities, especially chatbots like ChatGPT. Students shared that AI contributes to a better understanding, better grades, and helps in tasks and in preparing exams. Concurrently, there were high rates of academic stress and anxiety among students especially in public institutions. Nevertheless, AI was seen as positive in terms of decreasing stress, enhancing study management, decreasing anxiety, and raising motivation.

Discussion: The results indicate that AI plays a dual role in medical education by supporting academic performance while also contributing positively to mental health outcomes. However, concerns such as reduced independent thinking and over-reliance on AI were also identified. Significant differences were found between public and private institutions in terms of AI benefits and mental health outcomes.

Conclusion: It is concluded that AI has a significant positive impact on medical education by enhancing academic support and improving mental well-being. However, its effective and balanced use is essential to minimize potential risks such as dependency and reduced critical thinking among students.