RUMINATION, ANXIETY & SLEEP QUALITY AMONG MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS

Abstract

Medical students and professionals frequently encounter high-stress environments that can heighten psychological distress and impair sleep quality. In medical settings, it is intensified by clinical decision-making, academic pressure, and interpersonal dynamics. Chronic rumination impairs mental health, increases stress, and disrupts sleep by preventing cognitive disengagement, ultimately affecting performance and well-being. This study examined the relationship between rumination, anxiety, and sleep quality among 100 participants (69 medical students, 31 professionals) using the Ruminative Response Scale, GAD- 7, and PSQI. Rumination and anxiety were significantly associated with poorer sleep quality (r = - 0.267 and r = -0.291, respectively; p < 0.01), and positively correlated with each other (r = 0.578, p < 0.01). However, the regression analysis showed neither was a strong predictor of sleep quality. No significant group differences were found. Findings suggest that while rumination and anxiety impact sleep, other factors may play a greater role, warranting holistic psychological interventions.