Prevalence of depression among medical students across the Arab region: a scoping review

BACKGROUND: Depression among medical students is a significant mental health challenge globally, with increased prevalence rate in the Arab region. AIM: To systematically review the prevalence and risk factors for depression among medical students in the Arab region. METHOD: A systematic search of databases (PubMed, Medline, CINAHL, PsycINFO) and grey literature identified 16 observational cross-sectional studies conducted between 2019 and 2024. RESULTS: The studies included data from 9,243 participants, with a depression prevalence rate ranging from 40% in Palestine to 77.9% in Sudan. Risk factors associated with depression were grouped into five categories: sociodemographic, social and family dynamics, academic, behavioral, and lifestyle, and health and mental health history. To illustrate, younger age, female gender, and preclinical years of medical school are associated with a higher level of depressive symptoms. Social challenges, such as living apart from family and lacking adequate social support, were risk factors for psychological distress. Furthermore, academic pressure and uncertainty increase the possibility of having depressive symptoms. Maladaptive coping mechanisms such as substance abuse and excessive screen time, further exacerbate the condition. CONCLUSION: This review underscores the critical need for tailored mental health strategies in Arab medical schools. Interventions should address stigma, enhance social and academic support, and include culturally relevant stress management and resilience-building programs. Future research should explore the impact of socio-political instability and evaluate interventions tailored to collectivist cultural norms.