Mental Fatigue Among Allied Health Sciences Students: An Observational Study

Abstract

Background: Mental fatigue is a state of reduced concentration, energy, and efficiency, distinct from burnout. AHS students face dense academic schedules with prolonged lectures and minimal breaks, predisposing them to fatigue. Objectives: To measure the prevalence of mental fatigue among undergraduate AHS students and identify related academic and personal factors, while suggesting practical strategies for reduction. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted (March–June 2025) at JSS College of Allied Health Sciences, Chamarajanagar. Forty undergraduates (75% female; mean age 18 ± 1.2) from four disciplines were selected by stratified random sampling. Participants completed a structured questionnaire using validated scales for fatigue and motivation. Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics and chi-square tests. Results: Fatigue was highly prevalent: 47% reported moderate fatigue, 17% high, 21% low, and 15% none. Academic overload, poor peer/supervisor support, and <6 hours of sleep showed significant associations with higher fatigue. Students with moderafatigue maintainedned performance, while severe fatigue impaired accuracy and response time. Motivation provided partial buffering, but persistent stress and low psychosocial support increased fatigue and errors over time. Conclusion: Mental fatigue is common among AHS students, mainly driven by workload and limited support. Introducing structured breaks, peer mentoring, resilience training, and mental health literacy in the curriculum may reduce fatigue and enhance academic outcomes.