Stress and work-life balance in undergraduate dental students in Birmingham, United Kingdom and Hong Kong, China

Purpose/objectives: Dentistry is a challenging profession, subjecting students to various stressors which can affect well-being. This study in 2019 investigates the relationship between stress and work-life balance in dental students at University of Birmingham and The University of Hong Kong, from two different countries. Methods: Online anonymous questionnaires were completed by 54 students from Birmingham and 48 students from HongKong. Ethical approvalwas gained by both centres. Quantitative and qualitative data were captured with Likert scales and open questions. Using simple descriptive statistics in SPSS, Pearson chi-square tests determined statistical significance between categorical and quantitative variables (p < 0.05). Results: The majority of students from University of Birmingham (38.9%) felt "extremely stressed," whereas the majority of students from The University of Hong Kong (45.8%) only felt "slightly stressed" (p < 0.001). Exercise and emotional support appeared to be positive approaches for stress relief. Hong Kong dental students (68.8%) reported a good work-life balance compared to significantly fewer students (24.1%) in University of Birmingham (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Major stressors in this study included examinations and fear of failure. Students found that hobbies and extracurricular activities contributed to a healthier lifestyle. A better work-life balance reduced reported stress levels.