Work

National study on French health student precarity: socio-economic and mental health risk

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Introduction Health students often face unique challenges, including heavy academic workloads, clinical internships, and limited time for part-time jobs, making them particularly vulnerable to precarity. The study aims to identify financial resources and the socio-economic, mental health, and academic factors associated to precarity among health students in France. Methods A nationwide cross-sectional study was conducted from February to March 2024 in 34 French universities. Data were collected via an online self-administered questionnaire sent to students enrolled in health-related programs. The survey examined socio-demographic characteristics, financial resources, employment, mental health, and healthcare access. Precarity was defined as the combination of financial insecurity, frequent overdrafts, and foregoing essential purchases like food. Results Out of 12,565 respondents with 56% medical students. Precarity was almost 12% among health students. Family financial support emerged as a critical protective factor, while lower parental socioeconomic status significantly elevated the risk. Students with jobs were less likely to be precarious if they also received family support; however, students relying solely on loans faced higher precarity risks. Students in precarious situations were more likely to report symptoms of anxiety, depression, and emotional exhaustion. These students were also more likely to forgo healthcare services due to financial constraints. Discussion The study highlights the multidimensional nature of precarity, with financial, academic, and mental health factors interacting to exacerbate student vulnerability. The findings emphasize the need for targeted interventions, such as financial support, mental health services, and financial literacy programs. Improving access to healthcare and addressing socio-economic disparities would significantly improve the well-being and academic success of health students in France. Key messages • Nearly 12% of health students in France experience precarity, which is strongly linked to financial insecurity, poor mental health, and limited access to care. • Family support protects against precarity, while reliance on loans and low parental socioeconomic status significantly increase the risk.

Source: European Journal of Public Health

DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckaf161.903

Authors: M Tavolacci, J Ladner, B Veber

Institutions: Inserm, Université de Rouen Normandie

Language: English

Topic: Employment and Welfare Studies

Subfield: General Health Professions

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Reduced inequalities, No poverty, Decent work and economic growth, Quality education

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,181