The CISeAL researchers Xavier Sánchez and Ruth Jimbo participated in a study that analyzed the relationship between health-promoting behaviors and the presence of depression, anxiety, and risky alcohol consumption among Ecuadorian medical residents, in a context characterized by high work demands, long working hours, and structural limitations in access to mental health services. Through a cross-sectional survey applied to 307 residents of the Pontifical Catholic University of Ecuador, validated instruments were used to assess depressive symptoms, anxiety, alcohol consumption, and health habits, along with sociodemographic and training variables. The results showed a high prevalence of depression (38.8%) and anxiety (33.9%), as well as 12.1% risky alcohol consumption, confirming a significant burden of mental health problems in this population. A strong correlation between depression and anxiety was observed, as well as a consistent inverse association between both and healthy behaviors, especially those related to a positive mental attitude, self-care practices, and nutrition.

The analyses showed that a higher score in health-promoting behaviors significantly reduced the likelihood of presenting depression and anxiety, while a higher probability of risky alcohol consumption was observed among residents in surgical programs and among those who reported tobacco use. Factors such as older age and male sex were associated with a lower risk of depression, and the presence of comorbidities and night shifts were linked to poorer well-being indicators. Despite the extensive working hours, these alone did not explain the differences in mental health, suggesting that lifestyle and psychosocial resources play a determining role. Overall, the study highlights the need to implement comprehensive interventions that promote healthy habits, reduce stigma around mental health, and strengthen institutional support systems, not only to improve residents’ quality of life but also to protect patient safety and the sustainability of the country’s health system. Would you like to learn in detail how these findings can transform medical training and the well-being of health professionals?

We invite you to review the full article at
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/public-health/articles/10.3389/fpubh.2025.1715795/full