Prevalence Sources and Coping Strategies of Stress Among Final Year Medical Students at the University of Dongola Sudan During 2025 to 2026 Cross Sectional Study

Background Medical education is globally recognized as a high-stress environment, yet localized data on final-year students in Northern Sudan remains scarce. This study investigated the prevalence, sources, and coping mechanisms of stress among final-year medical students at the University of Dongola. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) and a structured questionnaire to identify academic and non-academic stressors. Statistical associations were analyzed using Chi-square ($\chi^2$) and Phi ($\Phi$) tests. Results The findings revealed that 77% of respondents experienced moderate-to-high stress levels (67% moderate; 10% high), with a mean PSS score of $18.17 \pm 6.56$. Exam pressure (73%) and academic workload (61%) were the dominant stressors. Significant associations were found between high stress and exam pressure ($\chi^2 = 17.39, p < 0.001$) and workload ($\chi^2 = 6.01, p = 0.014$). Prayer (67%) and social interaction (46%) were the primary coping strategies. Physical exercise and social support showed significant protective effects against high stress levels ($p < 0.001$). Discussion While the Yerkes-Dodson Law suggests that moderate pressure can enhance performance, the 77% prevalence rate indicates that students have surpassed their "peak" threshold and entered a state of distress. Conclusion Academic factors, rather than personal or financial issues, dominate the stress profile of final-year students at Dongola. There is an urgent need for institutionalized mental health support and curriculum reforms to balance academic rigor with student well-being.