Table 10 Category system of general stressors

Studies and exams (29)

Study workload, clerkships, compulsory courses, and upcoming examinations.

“Lots of compulsory courses.” “Exam week in both natural medicine and emergency care.”

Teaching and preparation (18)

Preparing and holding courses, as well as the necessary time for preparation.

“AaL ^plus sessions 3x/week.” “The preparation for the tutorial courses was very demanding.”

Doctorate (13)

Applying for and preparing a doctorate, research and laboratory work, and writing a thesis.

“Much work in the lab, especially a presentation of the last months’ results.”

Part-time jobs (12)

Mostly as undergraduate assistants or shifts at hospital wards.

“Additional night shifts, altogether about 4x last month; at times only two hours of sleep.”

Travel, family visits and Erasmus stays (8)

Larger travels, Erasmus study stays abroad, family visits.

“Return from my Erasmus stay.” “First time at home for Christmas for three years.”

Housing search and moving (8)

Flat viewing and moves. “I had to move houses, rent a transporter, carry furniture, arrange the rental contract, and register at the residents’ office – all parallel to the sonography course.”

Illness (own and family members’) (6)

Health restrictions and worries. “I had a serious flu.” “My mother’s illness. Due to her language barriers, I had to help her with her rehab application.”

Engagements (5)

Engagement in social projects or the faculty’s student body. “Tasks in the student council.”

Other (14)

Some mentions could not be summarised in any category, such as selection interviews for scholarships, personal conflicts, break-ups, imminent deadlines, or sports competitions.

Unspecific (10)

General stress without a specified stressor. “Psychological stress due to life circumstances.”