Abstract
Background: Medical training, particularly during the clinical internship, carries a high risk of psychoemotional distress and depressive symptoms, affecting students' performance and quality of life. The objective of this study was to explore the perceptions and experiences of depression and factors associated with psychological well-being in final-year medical students at UAI in Buenos Aires. Methods: A qualitative, descriptive, and exploratory design was used. The sample was non-probabilistic intentional with 16 sixth-year students. Data collection was performed using semi-structured interviews, and analysis was based on coding and thematic content analysis. Results: Three central categories were identified: perceived academic overload, emotional ambivalence towards the profession, and perceived lack of institutional support. Key findings included emotional exhaustion, anxiety, and strong pressure for perfectionism. The social support network (family and peers) emerged as the main protective factor and coping mechanism. Conclusion: We conclude that there is an urgent need to implement preventive programs and comprehensive psychological support strategies, adapted to the specific demands of the internship cycle, to protect the mental health of future medical professionals.
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