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Wiwattarangkul T, Wainipitapong S. Attitudes towards LGBTQ+ individuals among Thai medical students. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0296039. [PMID: 38096311 PMCID: PMC10721166 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0296039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The global population of individuals with gender diversity or LGBTQ+ people is on the rise. However, negative attitudes towards LGBTQ+ individuals persist, even among healthcare professionals, creating barriers to healthcare access. These attitudes are influenced by cultural variations worldwide and necessitate investigation across diverse cultures and settings. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to evaluate the attitudes towards LGBTQ+ people and describe associated factors with being LGBTQ+ among Thai medical students. METHODS During the 2021 academic year, a survey was conducted at a medical school in Bangkok, Thailand, collecting demographic data and attitudes measured by a standardised Thai questionnaire. Descriptive statistics as well as bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to describe characteristics and association. RESULTS A total of 806 medical students participated, with a neutral attitude being the most prevalent (72.2%), followed by a positive attitude (27.2%), and a minority reporting a negative attitude (0.6%). Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses revealed significant associations between positive attitudes and female sexual identity (aOR 2.02, 95%CI 1.45-2.81, p-value < 0.001), having LGBTQ+ family members (aOR 3.57, 95%CI 1.23-10.34, p-value = 0.019), having LGBTQ+ friend (aOR 1.46, 95%CI 1.02-2.11, p-value = 0.040), and coming from areas outside of Bangkok (aOR 1.41, 95%CI 1.01-1.97, p-value = 0.043). CONCLUSION Positive attitude towards the LGBTQ+ community are essential for physicians, emphasising the need to study factors that contribute to positive attitudes in order to foster an LGBTQ+-friendly environment for both patients and medical students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teeravut Wiwattarangkul
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Sorawit Wainipitapong
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, King’s College London, United Kingdom and Center of Excellence in Transgender Health (CETH), Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
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Rony MKK, Alamgir HM. High temperatures on mental health: Recognizing the association and the need for proactive strategies-A perspective. Health Sci Rep 2023; 6:e1729. [PMID: 38059052 PMCID: PMC10696165 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.1729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims The influence of temperature on various aspects of daily life is often underestimated, and its effects on mental health are not widely recognized. Understanding and addressing the relationship between temperature and mental well-being is crucial in the context of climate change and rising global temperatures. This perspective aimed to investigate the effects of high temperatures on mental health and identify proactive strategies to mitigate these effects. Methods This perspective adopted a twofold approach, including a comprehensive literature review and socioecological framework. The literature review involved extensive searches across Google Scholar, PubMed, and Scopus to identify relevant, peer-reviewed articles, and reports from diverse disciplines. Results The perspective emphasized the significance of recognizing heat stress and its consequences on mental well-being. Chronic heat stress can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and cognitive impairment. Vulnerable populations include, the very young, older adults, and individuals with pre-existing mental health conditions. Socioeconomic factors can further exacerbate vulnerability, highlighting the need for tailored strategies to manage mental health challenges during high temperatures. Additionally, the article identified and discussed proactive coping strategies to minimize both the psychological and physical impacts of heat stress. Mindfulness, stress management techniques, and therapy are suggested as effective means for individuals to manage psychological distress. Conclusion Implementing preventive measures are essential steps in promoting mental wellness in high temperatures. Proactive strategies by addressing the physiological and psychological effects of heat and considering the specific needs of vulnerable populations can help individuals and communities navigate the challenges posed by rising temperatures and promote resilience and preserve their mental well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moustaq Karim Khan Rony
- Department of Public HealthBangladesh Open UniversityGazipurBangladesh
- Department of Institute of Social Welfare and ResearchUniversity of DhakaDhakaBangladesh
| | - Hasnat M. Alamgir
- Department of Career & Professional Development Services (CPDS)Southeast UniversityDhakaBangladesh
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Wainipitapong S, Oon-arom A, Wiwattarangkul T, Vadhanavikkit P, Wiwattanaworaset P, Srifuengfung M, Chiddaycha M. Sexual Behaviors Among Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Other Sexual and Gender Diverse Medical Students: A National Study of Thai Medical Schools. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SEXUAL HEALTH : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE WORLD ASSOCIATION FOR SEXUAL HEALTH 2023; 35:352-362. [PMID: 38601729 PMCID: PMC10903562 DOI: 10.1080/19317611.2023.2214801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Objective This study aims to investigate sexual behaviors among gender diverse (LGBT and other sexual/gender minorities) and nongender-diverse medical students. Methods In 2021 academic year, medical students from five Thai medical schools completed questionnaires identifying demographic data, psychosexual factors, sexual experiences, and risks. Results Among 1,322 students, 32.1% were gender-diverse students who had lower age at first sexual intercourse and more experiences in solitary and partnered sexual activity. Conclusions Use of hookup applications was more frequent among gay and bisexual males. Risky sexual behaviors were significantly higher among bisexual females. Gender-diverse medical students showed higher involvement in sexual activities. Future studies should be addressing sexual health in Thai medical education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sorawit Wainipitapong
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
- Center of Excellence in Transgender Health, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Awirut Oon-arom
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Teeravut Wiwattarangkul
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Papan Vadhanavikkit
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | | | - Maytinee Srifuengfung
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Mayteewat Chiddaycha
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
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Kirdchok P, Kolkijkovin V, Munsukpol W, Chinvararak C. Prevalence of common mental health problems and associated factors among university students visiting Supara mental health service: A cross-sectional study. F1000Res 2022; 11:1107. [PMID: 37096183 PMCID: PMC10122108 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.126054.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Early studies found that the mental health problems rate was relatively high in university students. We aimed to investigate the prevalence of mental problems and associated factors in university students. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional descriptive study at Supara mental health service in the Faculty of Medicine Vajira Hospital between February 2020 to June 2021. The primary outcome was the prevalence of psychiatric diagnosis according to the 10th revision of the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD-10). The secondary assessments included the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), 8 items from the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI) to assess suicidal risk (8Q), and the Thai Mental Health Indicator (TMHI-15). The prevalence of mental health problems was presented by frequency and percentage. In addition, multivariable regression analysis was used to identify potential predictors of mental health problems. Results: A total of 184 participants (62% female; mean age = 22.49 years (SD 3.93) were recruited. The depressive disorders, adjustment disorders, and anxiety disorders rates were 57.1%, 15.2% and 13.6%, respectively. Grade point averages (GPAs) below 3.0 (OR=3.09, 95%CI: 1.17-8.14) and a family history of mental disorder (OR=3.40, 95%CI: 1.10-10.48) were significant associated factors of moderate to severe mental health problems. Detecting and screening these factors may help the university to provide early detection and treatment for students. Conclusions: Depressive disorders were the most common mental health disorders. Females, low GPAs and a family history of mental disorder were predictors of moderate to severe mental health problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pantri Kirdchok
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine Vajira Hospital, Navamindradhiraj University, Bangkok, 10300, Thailand
| | - Varuna Kolkijkovin
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine Vajira Hospital, Navamindradhiraj University, Bangkok, 10300, Thailand
| | - Wanida Munsukpol
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine Vajira Hospital, Navamindradhiraj University, Bangkok, 10300, Thailand
| | - Chotiman Chinvararak
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine Vajira Hospital, Navamindradhiraj University, Bangkok, 10300, Thailand
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Wainipitapong S, Chiddaycha M. Assessment of dropout rates in the preclinical years and contributing factors: a study on one Thai medical school. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2022; 22:461. [PMID: 35710367 PMCID: PMC9202226 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-022-03527-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The highest dropout rate for medical students is during the preclinical years of education. Several studies have reported possible contributing factors, however, studies regarding the dropout rate from medical education among Thai medical students and its associated factors are still lacking. This study aimed to identify the prevalence of dropout from medical education within the preclinical period and its associated factors among Thai medical students. METHODS We collected data from preclinical medical students who entered one medical school in Bangkok, Thailand, between 2017-2019. Demographic data, admission program, pre-admission mental health status assessed by the Thai Mental Health Indicator 66, mental health records from the faculty-based counseling services, and academic achievement were extracted. Data were reported in a descriptive fashion. We analyzed the association between dropout and these factors by robust Poisson regression. RESULTS In total, 914 students were recruited. Dropout was only 1.5%, which was lower than the previous studies. Regression analysis showed a significant association between dropout and mental health problems [Prevalence ratio (PR) 58.20, 95%CI 13.72- 246.95] but not admission program [PR 0.32, 95%CI 0.09 - 1.16] or failing examinations [PR 0.59, 95%CI 0.18 - 1.90]. However, other contributing factors such as financial status, family problems, medical illness, and students' motivation, were not evaluated in this study. CONCLUSIONS Mental health problems during medical education were associated with dropout after adjusting for other confounding variables. Further longitudinal studies are needed to identify the impacts of academic failure on dropout in higher clinical years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sorawit Wainipitapong
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, the Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand
- Center of Excellence in Transgender Health, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Mayteewat Chiddaycha
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, the Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand
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Kirdchok P, Kolkijkovin V, Munsukpol W, Chinvararak C. Prevalence of common mental health problems and associated factors among university students visiting Supara mental health service: A cross-sectional study. F1000Res 2022; 11:1107. [PMID: 37096183 PMCID: PMC10122108.2 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.126054.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Early studies found that the mental health problems rate was relatively high in university students. We aimed to investigate the prevalence of mental problems and associated factors in university students. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional descriptive study at Supara mental health service in the Faculty of Medicine Vajira Hospital between February 2020 to June 2021. The primary outcome was the prevalence of psychiatric diagnosis according to the 10th revision of the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD-10). The secondary assessments included the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), 8 items from the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI) to assess suicidal risk (8Q), and the Thai Mental Health Indicator (TMHI-15). The prevalence of mental health problems was presented by frequency and percentage. In addition, multivariable regression analysis was used to identify potential predictors of mental health problems. Results: A total of 184 participants (62% female; mean age = 22.49 years (SD 3.93) were recruited. The depressive disorders, adjustment disorders, and anxiety disorders rates were 57.1%, 15.2% and 13.6%, respectively. Grade point averages (GPAs) below 3.0 (OR=3.09, 95%CI: 1.17-8.14) and a family history of mental disorder (OR=3.40, 95%CI: 1.10-10.48) were significant associated factors of moderate to severe mental health problems. Detecting and screening these factors may help the university to provide early detection and treatment for students. Conclusions: Depressive disorders were the most common mental health disorders. Females, low GPAs and a family history of mental disorder were predictors of moderate to severe mental health problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pantri Kirdchok
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine Vajira Hospital, Navamindradhiraj University, Bangkok, 10300, Thailand
| | - Varuna Kolkijkovin
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine Vajira Hospital, Navamindradhiraj University, Bangkok, 10300, Thailand
| | - Wanida Munsukpol
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine Vajira Hospital, Navamindradhiraj University, Bangkok, 10300, Thailand
| | - Chotiman Chinvararak
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine Vajira Hospital, Navamindradhiraj University, Bangkok, 10300, Thailand
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