Stress, Depressive Symptoms, Well-Being and Mindfulness in a Sample of Saudi Medical Residents

objectives: It is well documented that medical residency training is generally stressful. Research has mainly focused on the negative mediating factors that contribute to high stress level in medical residents. In recent years, research has shifted toward understanding the protective factors that mediate stress and promote well-being. Mindfulness, a state of mind characterized by focus, awareness, and attention to and acceptance of one’s experiences in the present moment, has become an increasingly popular topic in stress management. The current study aims to examine stress levels, depressive symptoms, and well-being reported by medical residents in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the association between these variables and a self-report measure of mindfulness. Methods: All residents enrolled in a residency program in one hospital in Riyadh were asked to complete an online survey. The survey included four self-report measures to assess stress, depressive symptoms, well-being, and mindfulness. Results: Of the 60 medical residents who were contacted, 33 completed the online survey. Survey results revealed high levels of stress and depressive symptoms among the sample. Mindfulness was also found to be associated with positive outcomes, including lower perceived stress and depressive symptoms and enhanced well-being.