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Quansah F, Srem-Sai M, Agormedah EK, Ankomah F, Hagan JE, Schack T. Moderated moderation modelling of subjective social status, pocket money and depressive symptoms of university students in Ghana. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1325441. [PMID: 38638481 PMCID: PMC11025665 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1325441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Although the relationship between subjective social status and depression in university students has been well-established, this association could be seen as a spurious one. Previous studies have shown that key variables like financial resources and age could play key roles in explaining the variances in social status and mental health outcomes. In this research, we assessed the complex interrelationships between subjective social status, financial resources at their disposal and depressive symptoms among university students within their young and middle adulthood stages. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted in a university in Ghana to sample 1134 university students through accidental sampling. The McArthur Scale and WHO-5 Well-being measure were used for the data collection. Results The results revealed that higher levels of subjective social status were associated with lower levels of depression. It was further found that the interaction between students' pocket money and age played unique roles in the relationship between subjective social status and depression. Conclusion The study findings call on stakeholders in education to explore funding opportunities and to examine ways of empowering parents (financially) to adequately support the students. Health educationists and promoters, including psychologists, school counsellors and parents could compliment these efforts by helping to train and empower students through self-regulation or management skills to help improve their well-being. Continuous efforts are required to improve the financial status and mental health of students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Quansah
- Department of Educational Foundations, University of Education, Winneba, Ghana
| | - Medina Srem-Sai
- Department of Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Sports, University of Education, Winneba, Ghana
| | - Edmond Kwesi Agormedah
- Department of Business and Social Sciences Education, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Francis Ankomah
- Department of Educational Studies, Patton College of Education, Ohio University, Athens, OH, United States
| | - John Elvis Hagan
- Department of Health, Physical Education and Recreation, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
- Neurocognition and Action-Biomechanics-Research Group, Faculty of Psychology and Sports Science, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Thomas Schack
- Neurocognition and Action-Biomechanics-Research Group, Faculty of Psychology and Sports Science, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany
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Dougall I, Vasiljevic M, Kutlaca M, Weick M. Socioeconomic inequalities in mental health and wellbeing among UK students during the COVID-19 pandemic: Clarifying underlying mechanisms. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0292842. [PMID: 37910542 PMCID: PMC10619810 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0292842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Universities are seeing growing numbers of students with poor mental health and wellbeing. Given that lower socioeconomic status (SES) students typically have poorer mental health and wellbeing than their peers, this may be, in part, caused by an increase in the number of students attending university from lower SES backgrounds. However, less is known about how socioeconomic inequalities in mental health and wellbeing persist within university communities. Research investigating psychosocial factors that contribute to socioeconomic disparities in mental health and wellbeing suggests perceived control, inclusion, and perceived worth to be important underlying mechanisms. However, another strand of research suggests perceived competence may also play a mediating role in this relationship. Consequently, the present research seeks to examine fulfilment of perceived control, inclusion, perceived worth, and competence needs as potential mediators in the relationship between subjective SES and mental health and wellbeing in university students. Below, we report the results of a cross-sectional survey conducted among university students (n = 811) in the UK during a period of COVID-19 restrictions. In line with prior research, we found evidence of socioeconomic inequalities in mental health and wellbeing among students. Further, we found subjective SES predicted perceptions of control, inclusion, and competence. In turn, perceived control and competence predicted both positive and negative mental health and wellbeing, whilst inclusion predicted positive mental health and wellbeing only. Unexpectedly, we found no evidence that perceived worth acts as a mediator in this relationship, independently of perceived control, inclusion, and competence. As academic institutions continue to pursue policies to 'widen participation', they also have a responsibility to understand how socioeconomic inequalities in mental health and wellbeing are perpetuated within the university community. Research in this area marks a first step to improve socioeconomic equality within Higher Education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isla Dougall
- Department of Psychology, Durham University, Durham, United Kingdom
| | | | - Maja Kutlaca
- Department of Psychology, Durham University, Durham, United Kingdom
| | - Mario Weick
- Department of Psychology, Durham University, Durham, United Kingdom
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Holder N, Holliday R, Ranney RM, Bernhard PA, Vogt D, Hoffmire CA, Blosnich JR, Schneiderman AI, Maguen S. Relationship of social determinants of health with symptom severity among Veterans and non-Veterans with probable posttraumatic stress disorder or depression. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2023; 58:1523-1534. [PMID: 37173595 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-023-02478-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Social determinants of health (SDoH) refer to the conditions in the environments in which people live that affect health outcomes and risks. SDoH may provide proximal, actionable targets for interventions. This study examined how SDoH are associated with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression symptoms among Veterans and non-Veterans with probable PTSD or depression. METHODS Four multiple regressions were conducted. Two multiple regressions with Veterans examined the impact of SDoH on PTSD symptoms and on depression symptoms. Two multiple regressions with non-Veterans examined the impact of SDoH on PTSD symptoms and on depression symptoms. Independent variables included demographic characteristics, adverse experiences (in childhood and adulthood), and SDoH (discrimination, education, employment, economic instability, homelessness, justice involvement, and social support). Correlates that were statistically significant (p < 0.05) and clinically meaningful (rpart >|0.10|) were interpreted. RESULTS For Veterans, lower social support (rpart = - 0.14) and unemployment (rpart = 0.12) were associated with greater PTSD symptoms. Among non-Veterans, greater economic instability (rpart = 0.19) was associated with greater PTSD symptoms. In the depression models, lower social support (rpart = - 0.23) and greater economic instability (rpart = 0.12) were associated with greater depression for Veterans, while only lower social support was associated with greater depression for non-Veterans (rpart = - 0.14). CONCLUSION Among Veterans and non-Veterans with probable PTSD or depression, SDoH were associated with PTSD and depression symptoms, particularly social support, economic instability, and employment. Beyond direct treatment of mental health symptoms, addressing social support and economic factors such as instability and employment in the context of PTSD and depression are potential intervention targets that would benefit from future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Holder
- San Francisco Veterans Affairs Health Care System, 4150 Clement Street (116-P), San Francisco, CA, 94121, USA.
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, USA.
| | - Ryan Holliday
- Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center for Suicide Prevention, Aurora, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, USA
| | - Rachel M Ranney
- San Francisco Veterans Affairs Health Care System, 4150 Clement Street (116-P), San Francisco, CA, 94121, USA
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
- Sierra Pacific Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center, San Francisco, USA
| | - Paul A Bernhard
- Health Outcomes Military Exposures Epidemiology Program, Patient Care Services, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Washington, D.C., USA
| | - Dawne Vogt
- Women's Health Sciences Division of the National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, USA
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, USA
| | - Claire A Hoffmire
- Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center for Suicide Prevention, Aurora, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, USA
| | - John R Blosnich
- Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, USA
- Center for Health Equity Research and Promotion, Veterans Affairs Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, USA
| | - Aaron I Schneiderman
- Health Outcomes Military Exposures Epidemiology Program, Patient Care Services, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Washington, D.C., USA
| | - Shira Maguen
- San Francisco Veterans Affairs Health Care System, 4150 Clement Street (116-P), San Francisco, CA, 94121, USA
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
- Sierra Pacific Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center, San Francisco, USA
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Vidal C, Jun HJ, Latkin C. The Effects of Social Rank and Neighborhood and School Environment on Adolescent Depression and Suicidal Ideation: A Structural Equation Modeling Approach. Child Psychiatry Hum Dev 2023; 54:1425-1437. [PMID: 35347499 PMCID: PMC10120529 DOI: 10.1007/s10578-022-01347-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Depression and suicide constitute major public health problems, and their prevalence has been increasing among adolescents in the United States. More research is needed to understand the association between multilevel risk factors and depression and suicidal ideation in adolescents, particularly factors related to perceived social rank and environmental stress. The present study examined relationships among family mental history of mental illness, in-utero and perinatal complications, social rank factors, environmental factors, and depression and suicidal ideation in the past month in a clinical population of adolescents. A cross-sectional survey was administered in outpatient clinics to 197 adolescents ages 12-18 who were primarily Black and female. Findings from structural equation modeling showed the largest effects for the social rank factor on depression and suicidal ideation in the past month. These findings highlight the importance of preventive interventions for coping with social hierarchies to prevent depression and suicidal ideation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carol Vidal
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, 1800 Orleans Street/Bloomberg 12N, Baltimore, MD, 21287-3335, USA.
| | - Hyun-Jin Jun
- Graduate School, University of Maryland Baltimore, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Carl Latkin
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Clements C, Farooq B, Hawton K, Geulayov G, Casey D, Waters K, Ness J, Kelly S, Townsend E, Appleby L, Kapur N. Self-harm in university students: A comparative analysis of data from the Multicentre Study of Self-harm in England. J Affect Disord 2023; 335:67-74. [PMID: 37149057 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2023.04.112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increases in poor mental health and suicide have been identified among university students in the UK. However, little is known about self-harm in this group. AIMS To describe and identify care needs of university aged-students who self-harm via comparisons with an age-equivalent non-student group who self-harm. METHODS Observational cohort data from The Multicentre Study of Self-harm in England were used to investigate students aged 18 to 24 years who presented to emergency departments for self-harm, 2003 to 2016. Data were collected via clinician reports and medical records from five hospitals in three English regions. Characteristics, rates, repetition, and mortality outcomes were investigated. RESULTS The student sample included 3491 individuals (983, 28.2 % men; 2507, 71.8 % women; 1 unknown) compared to 7807 (3342, 42.8 % men; 4465, 57.2 % women) non-students. Self-harm increased over time in students (IRR 1.08, 95%CI 1.06-1.10, p < 0.01) but not in non-students (IRR 1.01, 95%CI 1.00-1.02, p = 0.15). There were differences in monthly distribution of self-harm with more presentations by students in October, November, and February. Characteristics were broadly similar, but students reported more problems with studying and mental health. Repetition (HR 0.78, 95%CI 0.71-0.86, p < 0.01) and mortality (HR 0.51, 95%CI 0.33-0.80, p < 0.01) were lower in students than non-students. CONCLUSIONS Self-harm in students may be directly related the student experience, such as academic pressure, relocation, and the transition to independent living. Wellbeing initiatives targeting these factors, alongside mental health awareness training for academic and non-academic staff may help to support students at risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Clements
- Centre for Mental Health and Safety, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
| | - Bushra Farooq
- Centre for Mental Health and Safety, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Keith Hawton
- Centre for Suicide Research, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Galit Geulayov
- Centre for Suicide Research, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Deborah Casey
- Centre for Suicide Research, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Keith Waters
- Centre for Self-harm and Suicide Prevention Research, Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Derby, UK
| | - Jennifer Ness
- Centre for Self-harm and Suicide Prevention Research, Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Derby, UK
| | - Samantha Kelly
- Centre for Self-harm and Suicide Prevention Research, Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Derby, UK
| | - Ellen Townsend
- School of Psychology, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Louis Appleby
- Centre for Mental Health and Safety, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Navneet Kapur
- Centre for Mental Health and Safety, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK; Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK; NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Translational Research Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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Quansah F, Agormedah EK, Hagan JE, Frimpong JB, Ankomah F, Srem-Sai M, Dadaczynski K, Okan O, Schack T. Subjective social status and well-being of adolescents and young adults in Ghanaian schools: conditional process analysis. BMC Psychol 2023; 11:122. [PMID: 37072828 PMCID: PMC10111290 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-023-01158-7] [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: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND With the growing concern and interest in the mental health and well-being of adolescents and young adults (AYAs) including those in schools, many studies have explored the bivariate relationship between subjective social status (SSS) and AYAs' subjective well-being (SWB). Acknowledging the spurious nature of this relationship, we assessed the relationship between SSS and SWB of AYAs in schools within Northern Ghana, focusing on the conditional indirect effect of monetary resource (MR) and sense of coherence (SoC). METHODS We utilised a cross-sectional descriptive design to survey 1096 senior high school students from two regions in Ghana's Northern zone through a stratified sampling method. A questionnaire consisting of a number of calibrated standardized measures was used for the data collection. The data were processed using SPSS and PROCESS Macro and analysed using Hayes' conditional process analysis. RESULTS The results revealed that students' MR significantly moderated the relationships between SSS and SoC as well as SSS and SWB. A significant moderated mediation effect of MR and SoC on the relationship between SSS and SWB was found. Particularly, AYAs who reported higher levels of MRl, SSS and SoC reported a better SWB. CONCLUSION The findings underscore the relevance of providing sufficient financial support for students in secondary schools in Ghana; thus, highlighting the sheer relevance of economic capital as a leading factor for better well-being. The findings also place much emphasis on building students' personal coping mechanisms as a key variable in explaining how the students' SSS and MR translate into having positive mental health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Quansah
- Department of Educational Foundations, University of Education, Winneba, P. O. Box 25, Winneba, Ghana
| | - Edmond Kwesi Agormedah
- Department of Business & Social Sciences Education, University of Cape Coast, PMB Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - John Elvis Hagan
- Department of Health, Physical Education and Recreation, University of Cape Coast, PMB Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana.
- Neurocognition and Action-Biomechanics-Research Group, Faculty of Psychology and Sports Science, Bielefeld University, Postfach 10 01 31, 33501, Bielefeld, Germany.
| | - James Boadu Frimpong
- Department of Health, Physical Education and Recreation, University of Cape Coast, PMB Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Francis Ankomah
- Department of Education and Psychology, University of Cape Coast, PMB Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
- Department of Education, SDA College of Education, P. O. Box AS 18, Asokore-Koforidua, Ghana
| | - Medina Srem-Sai
- Department of Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Sports, University of Education, Winneba, P. O. Box 25, Winneba, Ghana
| | - Kevin Dadaczynski
- Department of Health Science, Fulda University of Applied Sciences, 36037, Fulda, Germany
- Centre for Applied Health Science, Leuphana University Lueneburg, 21335, Lueneburg, Germany
| | - Orkan Okan
- Department of Sports and Health Science, Technical University Munich, 80992, Munich, Germany
| | - Thomas Schack
- Neurocognition and Action-Biomechanics-Research Group, Faculty of Psychology and Sports Science, Bielefeld University, Postfach 10 01 31, 33501, Bielefeld, Germany
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Baklola M, Terra M, Elzayat MA, Abdelhady D, El-Gilany AH, Collaborators ATO. Pattern, barriers, and predictors of mental health care utilization among Egyptian undergraduates: a cross-sectional multi-centre study. BMC Psychiatry 2023; 23:139. [PMID: 36879216 PMCID: PMC9990190 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-023-04624-z] [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] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mental health disorders are a major public health concern especially among undergraduates, globally and within Egypt. Most individuals suffering from mental illnesses either do not seek care at all or seek it only after a large delay. It is therefore critical to identify the barriers that prevent them from seeking professional help to solve the problem from its roots. Thus, the objectives of the study were to assess the prevalence of psychological distress, the need for professional mental health care, and the barriers to seeking available services among undergraduate students in Egypt. METHODS A proportionate allocation technique was used to recruit 3240 undergraduates from 21 universities. Symptoms of psychological distress were evaluated using the Arabic General Health Questionnaire (AGHQ-28) and a score of above nine was used to identify positive cases. The pattern for utilization of mental health care was assessed using a multi-choice question and barriers to mental health care were assessed using the Barriers to Access to Care Evaluation (BACE- 30) tool. Logistic regression was adopted to identify the predictors of psychological distress and seeking professional health care. RESULTS The prevalence of psychological distress was 64.7% and the need for professional mental health care was 90.3% of those with psychological distress. The top barrier to receiving professional mental health services was wanting to solve the problem on their own. Logistic regression revealed that female sex, living away from family and positive family history of mental disorders were independent predictors of psychological distress. Students from urban backgrounds were more likely to seek help than students from rural ones. While age above 20 and positive family history of mental disorders were independent predictors for seeking professional help. There is no significant difference between medical and non-medical students in terms of psychological distress. CONCLUSION The findings of the study showed there is a high prevalence of psychological distress and a lot of instrumental and attitudinal related barriers to seeking mental health care and highlighted the urgent need to develop interventions and preventive strategies to address the mental health of university students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Baklola
- Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, 60El-Gomhoria Street, Mansoura, 35516, Egypt. .,Alpha Research Organization (ARO), Mansoura, Egypt.
| | - Mohamed Terra
- Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, 60El-Gomhoria Street, Mansoura, 35516, Egypt. .,Alpha Research Organization (ARO), Mansoura, Egypt.
| | - Mohamed A Elzayat
- Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, 60El-Gomhoria Street, Mansoura, 35516, Egypt.,Alpha Research Organization (ARO), Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Doaa Abdelhady
- Public Health and Community Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, 60El-Gomhoria Street, Mansoura, 35516, Egypt
| | - Abdel-Hady El-Gilany
- Public Health and Community Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, 60El-Gomhoria Street, Mansoura, 35516, Egypt
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Deindl C, Diehl K, Spallek J, Richter M, Schüttig W, Rattay P, Dragano N, Pischke CR. Self-rated health of university students in Germany-The importance of material, psychosocial, and behavioral factors and the parental socio-economic status. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1075142. [PMID: 36844838 PMCID: PMC9950386 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1075142] [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: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Health inequalities start early in life. The time of young adulthood, between late teens and early twenties, is especially interesting in this regard. This time of emerging adulthood, the transition from being a child to becoming an adult, is characterized by the detachment from parents and establishing of an own independent life. From a health inequality perspective, the question about the importance of the socio-economic background of parents is important. University students are an especially interesting group. Many students come from a privileged background and the question of health inequality among university students has not yet been properly studied. Methods Based on the National Educational Panel Study (NEPS), we analyzed health inequalities among 9,000 students in Germany (∅ 20 years in the first year of their studies) over a period of 8 years. Results We found that most university students (92%) in Germany reported a good and very good health. Yet, we still found substantial health inequalities. Students whose parents had a higher occupational status reported less health problems. Additionally, we observed that health inequalities had indirect impact on health via health behavior, psychosocial resources, and material conditions. Discussion We believe our study is an important contribution to the understudied subject of students' health. We see the impact of social inequality on health among such a privileged group like university students as an important sign of the importance of health inequality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Deindl
- Department of Social Sciences, TU Dortmund University, Dortmund, Germany,*Correspondence: Christian Deindl ✉
| | - Katharina Diehl
- Department of Medical Informatics, Biometry and Epidemiology, Chair of Epidemiology and Public Health, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jacob Spallek
- Department of Public Health, Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg, Senftenberg, Germany
| | - Matthias Richter
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Wiebke Schüttig
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Petra Rattay
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Monitoring, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Nico Dragano
- Institute of Medical Sociology, Centre for Health and Society, University Hospital and Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Claudia R. Pischke
- Institute of Medical Sociology, Centre for Health and Society, University Hospital and Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
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Prevalence and determinants of Internet Addiction among medical students and its association with depression. J Affect Disord 2022; 314:94-102. [PMID: 35817304 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2022.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2021] [Revised: 04/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Internet addiction has been a topic of discussion in the academic literature for many years. As of April 2020, about 60 % of the world's population (nearly 4.6 billion people) were active internet user in their early adulthood. The prevalence among adolescent and college students ranged from 0.9 % to 33 %. The current study aimed to explore internet addiction's prevalence and correlates among undergraduate medical students at an Egyptian university. Also, to assess the relationship between internet addiction, depression symptoms, and socioeconomic status. METHODS A cross-sectional study of 321 undergraduate medical students at Assiut University using the Internet Addiction Scale, Patient Health Questionnaire, and Family Affluence Scale. RESULTS About 9 % of the study participants screened positive for internet addiction. The most important determinants among medical students were sex, mother's employment status, family affluence, depressive symptoms, and unmonitored internet access. LIMITATIONS We did not investigate another psychiatric disease, daily time of internet usage, most frequent time of usage, type of internet usage, and cost of use. CONCLUSIONS Internet Addiction is an important psychological problem affecting about 9 % of Assiut university medical students during their undergraduate stage, which may interfere with their lives and studies. Students with lower Internet addiction rates were female students whose mothers were employed, lived in a low affluence family, had fewer depressive symptoms, and had unmonitored internet privacy.
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Mohammed HM, Soliman SM, Abdelrahman AA, Ibrahim AK. Depressive symptoms and its correlates among medical students in Upper Egypt. MIDDLE EAST CURRENT PSYCHIATRY 2022. [DOI: 10.1186/s43045-022-00231-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Medical students are at high risk of developing depressive symptoms rather than their age-matched group as medical education is stressful and medical students have psychological and academic stressors. The study aimed to estimate the prevalence of depressive symptoms and the most important correlates associated with it among Assiut University Medical Students in the academic year 2019–2020. It is a cross sectional study conducted among 766 medical students at Assiut University in the academic year 2019–2020, screening for depressive symptoms was by patient health questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9).
Results
The mean age of students was 21.27 ± 1.9, 55.5% of them have depressive symptoms. Female students had statistically significantly higher percent of depressive symptoms compared with males (58.9% vs 51.2%), there was statistically significant lower mean socio-economic score among students having depressive symptoms compared to students with no depressive symptoms (5.73 ± 2.46 and 6.22 ± 2.5 respectively). Students having depressive symptoms had higher mean scores of stresses. The multivariable regression revealed that younger age of the students (OR = 0.797; p < 0.001), having a chronic disease (OR = 3.174; P = 0.024), lower life satisfaction score (OR = 0.908; p < 0.001), students with higher medical stress score (OR = 3.596, P < 0.001), and high sense of control score (OR = 2.323; p < 0.001) were the significant correlates of depressive symptoms among medical students.
Conclusions
Female gender, low socio-economic status, having chronic disease, presence of family history of either mental illness or depressive symptoms, low satisfaction with life, higher total medical stressors, and low sense of control were the most important correlates of depressive symptoms among medical students.
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Senan S, Halbrook Y, Kornbrot DE, Msetfi RM. Depression symptoms and the perception of public health restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic in Saudi Arabia: The protective effect of sense of control. Prev Med Rep 2022; 28:101836. [PMID: 35601456 PMCID: PMC9113956 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2022.101836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The psychological impact of public health restrictions may play a role in the increased depression levels reported since the COVID-19 pandemic began. Data further suggest that people’s sense of personal control has been reduced during the pandemic also producing psychological distress. This study aimed to test whether perceptions of public health restrictions predict depression under pandemic conditions and if the sense of control can serve as a protective factor. For this cross-sectional study, 641 residents in Saudi Arabia over the age of 17 years were recruited between November and December of 2020 to complete an online survey. The survey assessed depression levels (Beck Depression Inventory, BDI), the sense of control and perceptions of public health restrictions. Demographic information was also collected. Depression levels were higher compared to previous samples (d = 0.12). The number of restrictions perceived as distressing strongly predicted the probability of high BDI scores, β=0.92, with higher sense of control predicting lower levels of depression (constraints, β=-0.50, mastery, β=-0.71). A strong sense of control significantly reduced the impact of the perception of restrictions on depression. These results suggest that the perception of public health restrictions is part of the reason for increased levels of depression during the pandemic. A strong sense control reduced the impact of restrictions on depression. It is therefore possible that simple interventions enhancing the sense of control, such as the availability of choice, could support mental health in restricted situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salha Senan
- King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yemaya Halbrook
- University of Limerick, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | | | - Rachel M. Msetfi
- University of Limerick, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
- Corresponding author at: Department of Psychology, University of Limerick, Castletroy, Limerick, Ireland.
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12
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Ward C, McLafferty M, McLaughlin J, McHugh R, McBride L, Brady J, Bjourson AJ, Walsh CP, O'Neill SM, Murray EK. Suicidal behaviours and mental health disorders among students commencing college. Psychiatry Res 2022; 307:114314. [PMID: 34864232 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2021.114314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The increase in psychological disorders and suicidal behaviour in students is a reason for growing concern. Some may start university with pre-existing problems, while others develop problems during this time. It is important to evaluate mental health and wellbeing early, identifying those at risk. The aim of this study was to compare mental health problems and help-seeking behaviour between students in Northern Ireland (NI) and the Republic of Ireland (ROI). Whilst geographically proximate, the institutions span a cross-border region with distinct education and healthcare systems. First-year undergraduate students (n = 1828) were recruited in September 2019 as part of the World Mental Health International College Student Initiative. Suicidal behaviour, mental health and substance disorders were investigated using the World Mental Health- Composite International Diagnostic Interview. Prevalence of disorders was high, with more ROI students experiencing problems than NI students. Students were significantly more likely to experience mental health problems if they were female (p<0.001), non-heterosexual (p<0.0001), and over the age of 21 (p<0.0001). These findings show that many students are starting university with high levels of psychopathology and suicidal behaviour, highlighting the importance of early intervention which may need to be tailored to different student populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caoimhe Ward
- Centre for Research and Development, Region Gävleborg/Uppsala University, Gävle, Sweden
| | - Margaret McLafferty
- Centre for Research and Development, Region Gävleborg/Uppsala University, Gävle, Sweden
| | - Jonathon McLaughlin
- Centre for Research and Development, Region Gävleborg/Uppsala University, Gävle, Sweden
| | - Rachel McHugh
- School of Psychology, Ulster University, Coleraine Campus, Coleraine, Co. Derry, UK; Letterkenny Institute of Technology, Co. Donegal, Ireland
| | - Louise McBride
- Letterkenny Institute of Technology, Co. Donegal, Ireland
| | - John Brady
- Western Health and Social Care Trust, Tyrone and Fermanagh Hospital, Omagh, Co. Tyrone, UK
| | - Anthony J Bjourson
- Centre for Research and Development, Region Gävleborg/Uppsala University, Gävle, Sweden
| | - Colum P Walsh
- Genomics Medicine Research Group, School of Biomedical Sciences, Ulster University, Coleraine Campus, Coleraine, Co. Derry, UK
| | - Siobhan M O'Neill
- School of Psychology, Ulster University, Coleraine Campus, Coleraine, Co. Derry, UK
| | - Elaine K Murray
- Centre for Research and Development, Region Gävleborg/Uppsala University, Gävle, Sweden
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13
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Van de Velde S, Buffel V, van der Heijde C, Çoksan S, Bracke P, Abel T, Busse H, Zeeb H, Rabiee-khan F, Stathopoulou T, Van Hal G, Ladner J, Tavolacci M, Tholen R, Wouters E. Depressive symptoms in higher education students during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. An examination of the association with various social risk factors across multiple high- and middle-income countries. SSM Popul Health 2021; 16:100936. [PMID: 34611543 PMCID: PMC8484180 DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmph.2021.100936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Higher-education students face substantial risks for developing depressive symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic or experiencing exacerbated pre-existing depressive symptoms. This study uses data from the COVID-19 International Student Well-Being Study, which collected data through a non-representative convenience sample in 125 higher-education institutions (HEI) across 26 high- and middle-income countries (N: 20,103) during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. It describes the prevalence of depressive symptoms in higher-education students. We find substantial cross-national variation in depressive symptoms, with lowest mean levels established in the Nordic countries and France, while highest mean levels of depressive symptoms were found in Turkey, South Africa, Spain and the USA. Elevated risk for depressive symptoms was found in female students, students with fewer social support resources and in a more disadvantaged socioeconomic position, and students with a migrant background. COVID-19 related stressors, such as reduced social contact, increased financial insecurity, and academic stress explained a relatively larger proportion of the variance in depressive symptoms compared to non-COVID-19 related stressors. This finding shows that not the pandemic itself, but rather the secondary effects of the pandemic relate to students' mental health. Our results enable HEIs to be better equipped to target groups that are particularly at risk during a pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. Van de Velde
- Centre for Population, Family and Health, Department of Sociology, University of Antwerp, Sint-Jacobsstraat 2-4, 2000, Antwerpen, Belgium
| | - V. Buffel
- Centre for Population, Family and Health, Department of Sociology, University of Antwerp, Sint-Jacobsstraat 2-4, 2000, Antwerpen, Belgium
| | | | - S. Çoksan
- Department of Psychology, Middle East Technical University, Üniversiteler Mahallesi, Dumlupınar Bulvarı No:1, 06800, Çankaya/Ankara, Turkey
| | - P. Bracke
- Health & Demographic Research, Department of Sociology, Ghent University, Korte Meer 5, 9000, Gent, Belgium
| | - T. Abel
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universität Bern, Mittelstrasse 43, 3012, Bern, Switzerland
| | - H. Busse
- Leibniz Institute for Prevention Research and Epidemiology – BIPS, Achterstraße 30, 28359, Bremen, Germany
| | - H. Zeeb
- Leibniz Institute for Prevention Research and Epidemiology – BIPS, Achterstraße 30, 28359, Bremen, Germany
- Health Sciences Bremen, University of Bremen, Bibliotheksstr, 1, 28359 Bremen, Germany
| | - F. Rabiee-khan
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health, Education & Life Sciences, Birmingham City University, Westbourne Road, Birmingham, B15 3TN, UK
| | - T. Stathopoulou
- National Centre for Social Research, 9 Kratinou & Athinas St., 10552, Athens, Greece
| | - G. Van Hal
- Department of Social Epidemiology and Health Policy, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - J. Ladner
- Clinical Investigation Center, CHU Rouen, U 1073, Normandie University, F 76000 Rouen, France
| | - M. Tavolacci
- Clinical Investigation Center, CHU Rouen, U 1073, Normandie University, F 76000 Rouen, France
| | - R. Tholen
- Centre for Population, Family and Health, Department of Sociology, University of Antwerp, Sint-Jacobsstraat 2-4, 2000, Antwerpen, Belgium
| | - E. Wouters
- Centre for Population, Family and Health, Department of Sociology, University of Antwerp, Sint-Jacobsstraat 2-4, 2000, Antwerpen, Belgium
| | - for the C19 ISWS consortium
- Centre for Population, Family and Health, Department of Sociology, University of Antwerp, Sint-Jacobsstraat 2-4, 2000, Antwerpen, Belgium
- Student Health Services, University of Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Psychology, Middle East Technical University, Üniversiteler Mahallesi, Dumlupınar Bulvarı No:1, 06800, Çankaya/Ankara, Turkey
- Health & Demographic Research, Department of Sociology, Ghent University, Korte Meer 5, 9000, Gent, Belgium
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universität Bern, Mittelstrasse 43, 3012, Bern, Switzerland
- Leibniz Institute for Prevention Research and Epidemiology – BIPS, Achterstraße 30, 28359, Bremen, Germany
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health, Education & Life Sciences, Birmingham City University, Westbourne Road, Birmingham, B15 3TN, UK
- National Centre for Social Research, 9 Kratinou & Athinas St., 10552, Athens, Greece
- Department of Social Epidemiology and Health Policy, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610, Wilrijk, Belgium
- Clinical Investigation Center, CHU Rouen, U 1073, Normandie University, F 76000 Rouen, France
- Health Sciences Bremen, University of Bremen, Bibliotheksstr, 1, 28359 Bremen, Germany
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14
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Lugova H, Andoy-Galvan JA, Patil SS, Wong YH, Baloch GM, Suleiman A, Nordin R, Chinna K. Prevalence and Associated Factors of the Severity of Depression, Anxiety and Stress Among Low-Income Community-Dwelling Adults in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Community Ment Health J 2021; 57:1489-1498. [PMID: 33417170 DOI: 10.1007/s10597-020-00765-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Growing prevalence of mental illnesses and the role they play in the global disease burden is an emerging public health issue. The prevalence of depression and anxiety is on the rise in Malaysia. Low-income urban communities are among the key affected populations with regards to mental health problems. This cross-sectional study was aimed to determine the prevalence and severity of depression, anxiety and stress, and their associated factors among adults in the low-income community of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. A total of 248 participants aged 18-60 years old were recruited. Data were collected via face-to-face interviews using the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale-21 Items (DASS-21). Chi-squared test was used to examine the association between the variables. Multiple ordinal regression model was introduced to identify the predictors of depression, anxiety and stress. The proportions of participants with depression, anxiety and stress were 24.2% (95% CI: 19.6-30.4), 36.3% (95% CI: 29.9-43.0), and 20.6% (95% CI: 15.4-26.5), respectively. There was a statistically significant association of ethnicity (p = 0.002) and age (p = 0.014) with the severity of depression, ethnicity (p = 0.001) and age (p = 0.024) with the severity of anxiety, and ethnicity (p < 0.001) and marital status (p = 0.006) with the severity of stress. In a multivariable analysis, only non-Malay ethnicity was an independent predictor of the severity of depression [OR = 2.43, 95% CI (1.25, 4.72), p = 0.009], anxiety [OR = 2.55, 95% CI (1.41, 4.62), p = 0.002] and stress [OR = 4.28, 95% CI (2.06, 8.89), p = <0.001]. Mental health interventions should target low-income communities to address social inequalities of mental health within economically disadvantaged populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Halyna Lugova
- Faculty of Medicine and Defence Health, National Defence University of Malaysia, Sungai Besi Prime Camp, 57000, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Jo Ann Andoy-Galvan
- School of Medicine, Taylor's University Malaysia, No. 1 Jalan Taylor's, 47500, Subang Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Sapna S Patil
- School of Medicine, Taylor's University Malaysia, No. 1 Jalan Taylor's, 47500, Subang Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Yin How Wong
- School of Medicine, Taylor's University Malaysia, No. 1 Jalan Taylor's, 47500, Subang Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Gul M Baloch
- School of Medicine, Taylor's University Malaysia, No. 1 Jalan Taylor's, 47500, Subang Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Adlina Suleiman
- Faculty of Medicine and Defence Health, National Defence University of Malaysia, Sungai Besi Prime Camp, 57000, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Rusli Nordin
- School of Medicine, Taylor's University Malaysia, No. 1 Jalan Taylor's, 47500, Subang Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Karuthan Chinna
- School of Medicine, Taylor's University Malaysia, No. 1 Jalan Taylor's, 47500, Subang Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
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15
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Dougall I, Weick M, Vasiljevic M. Social class and wellbeing among staff and students in higher education settings: Mapping the problem and exploring underlying mechanisms. JOURNAL OF APPLIED SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/jasp.12814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Isla Dougall
- Department of Psychology Durham University Durham UK
| | - Mario Weick
- Department of Psychology Durham University Durham UK
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16
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Hodgson JC, Bretherton R. Twelve tips for novice academic staff supporting medical students in distress. MEDICAL TEACHER 2021; 43:839-844. [PMID: 33073646 DOI: 10.1080/0142159x.2020.1831464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The importance of having university systems to support students' wellbeing and welfare needs has been well documented, with an increasing literature on best practice for structuring student support services from an institutional perspective. Nevertheless, individual members of academic staff are often required to deal with students who are experiencing challenging circumstances, and this is especially so in the pre-clinical phases of medical training. The prospect of advising and supporting students who are in difficulty and who may be distressed, can be daunting and can also negatively impact the wellbeing of the staff involved. These tips present the practical guidelines we have developed on how academic staff can best manage meetings with students in situations of crisis or high emotion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica C Hodgson
- Lincoln Medical School, Universities of Nottingham and Lincoln, Lincoln, UK
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17
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Prevalence of Depressive Symptoms and Associated Psychosocial Risk Factors among French University Students: the Moderating and Mediating Effects of Resilience. Psychiatr Q 2021; 92:443-457. [PMID: 32804341 DOI: 10.1007/s11126-020-09812-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
University students constitute a higher risk population for mental health problems, especially for depression. Given the lack of literature addressing such issues in France, this study estimated the prevalence rates of depression, its sociodemographic correlates in French university students [FUS], and examined whether resilience resources moderated and mediated the relationship between perceived stress and depressive symptoms. Participants (N = 1435, Mage = 20.5) completed the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II), the Perceived Stress Scale, the Brief Resilience Scale, and a sociodemographic questionnaire. Descriptive, multiple logistic regressions, and mediation analyses were used. With respect to the BDI-II's cutoff scores, 20.3% (95% CI: 18.3 to 22.4%) and 22.8% (95% CI: 20.7 to 25.0%) were positive to moderate and severe depression, respectively. Gender and education attainment appeared to be moderate risk factors when accounting for cumulative effect of perceived stress and resilience. Resilience buffered and partially mediated the perceived stress-depression relationship. In conclusion, the prevalence of depression was higher in FUS, as reported in previous studies. The amount of academic and daily stress explained this prevalence. University students with low resilience level were more at risk. Interventions aiming to improve resilience skills could help to mitigate the negative effects of stress and to promote mental health in this population.
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18
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Rehman R, Fatima K, Hussain M, Sarim M, Gazzaz ZJ, Baig M. Association between depression and health risk behaviors among university students, Karachi, Pakistan. COGENT PSYCHOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/23311908.2021.1886626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Rehana Rehman
- Department of Biological & Biomedical Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Kiran Fatima
- Department of Physiology, Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Mehwish Hussain
- Department of Public Health, College of Public Health, Imam Abdurrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammad Sarim
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Shifa International Hospital, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Zohair Jamil Gazzaz
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Rabigh, King Abdul Aziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mukhtiar Baig
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry/Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, Rabigh, King Abdul Aziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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19
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Rudenstine S, McNeal K, Schulder T, Ettman CK, Hernandez M, Gvozdieva K, Galea S. Depression and Anxiety During the COVID-19 Pandemic in an Urban, Low-Income Public University Sample. J Trauma Stress 2021; 34:12-22. [PMID: 33045107 PMCID: PMC7675401 DOI: 10.1002/jts.22600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Mental health disparities in the aftermath of national disasters and the protective role of socioeconomic status are both well documented. We assessed the prevalence of depression and anxiety symptoms among underresourced public university students during the COVID-19 pandemic in New York City. Between April 8, 2020, and May 2, 2020, adult students (N = 1,821) across the CUNY system completed an online survey examining COVID-19-related stressors and mental health and sociodemographic factors. Using multivariable logistical regression to assess the association between COVID-19-related stressors and depression and anxiety symptoms, we found a high prevalence and severity of depression and anxiety symptoms. We also observed that more exposure to COVID-19-related stressors was associated with increased depressive (27.0%, 41.4%, and 63.1% for low-, medium-, and high-level stressors, respectively) and anxiety symptoms (19.3%, 34.6%, 52.2%). In addition, the degree of exposure to COVID-19-related stressors served as an important predictor of depression and anxiety symptoms. Compared to high levels of stressors, the odds of depression were 0.2, 95% CI [0.2, 0.3] for low- and 0.4, 95% CI [0.3, 0.5] for medium-level stressors; for anxiety, the odds were 0.2, 95% CI [0.2, 0.3] for low and 0.05, 95% CI [0.4, 0.6] for medium stressors. Finally, household savings of less than $5,000 increased the risk of anxiety but not depression symptoms, OR = 1.3, 95% CI [1.0,1.6]. Together, these findings tell a devastating story of psychological distress among students from lower socioeconomic groups living in the COVID-19 epicenter of the U.S. pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sasha Rudenstine
- Department of PsychologyCity College of New YorkNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Kat McNeal
- Department of PsychologyCity College of New YorkNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Talia Schulder
- Department of PsychologyCity College of New YorkNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | | | | | | | - Sandro Galea
- School of Public HealthBoston UniversityBostonMassachusettsUSA
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20
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Rubin M. Explaining the association between subjective social status and mental health among university students using an impact ratings approach. SN SOCIAL SCIENCES 2021; 1:20. [PMID: 34693303 PMCID: PMC7725541 DOI: 10.1007/s43545-020-00031-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 10/31/2020] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
Previous research has found a positive association between social class and mental health among university students. Various mediators of this association have been proposed. However, the extent to which students perceive these mediators as having an impact on their mental health has not been investigated. It is important to investigate this issue because students who do not perceive issues as having an impact on their mental health may not be motivated to address those issues. In the current study, 402 first-year undergraduate psychology students from a large Australian university indicated the extent to which 32 issues had a negative impact on their mental health over the past six months. Students rated lack of money, time management, coursework assessment items, lack of sleep, and course marks as having the largest impact on their mental health. Lack of money and time management mediated the positive association between subjective social status and mental health over (a) the past week and (b) the past month. Coursework assessment items and course marks mediated the positive association between subjective social status and satisfaction with the university experience. It is concluded that interventions should focus on these relatively high impact issues in order to address social class differences in students' mental health and university satisfaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Rubin
- School of Psychology, Behavioural Sciences Building, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308 Australia
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21
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He ZH, Li MD, Ma XY, Liu CJ. Family Socioeconomic Status and Social Media Addiction in Female College Students: The Mediating Role of Impulsiveness and Inhibitory Control. J Genet Psychol 2021; 182:60-74. [PMID: 33292090 DOI: 10.1080/00221325.2020.1853027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
There is increasing evidence that low family socioeconomic status (SES) not only is a social issue, but also is a precursor to addiction to social media and other technologies. The authors investigated the relationship between family SES, stress, impulsiveness and inhibitory control, and social media addiction among Chinese female college students. The findings revealed that in lower-SES families, increased social media addiction was associated with reduced inhibitory control and increased stress and impulsiveness. A structural equation model was used to examine the mediation model hypothesis, and the results confirmed the mediating role of no-planning impulsiveness and inhibitory control between family educational level and social media addiction among Chinese female college students. These findings demonstrate the importance of reducing impulsiveness and improving inhibitory control for preventing social media addiction in female college students of low SES. Future studies are required to confirm precursors to social media addiction, elucidate causal mechanisms, and support the explanatory model of social media addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhong-Hua He
- School of Journalism and New Media, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Ming-De Li
- School of Journalism and New Media, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xiao-Yue Ma
- School of Journalism and New Media, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Chan-Jun Liu
- School of Journalism and New Media, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
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22
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Myers B, Bantjes J, Lochner C, Mortier P, Kessler RC, Stein DJ. Maltreatment during childhood and risk for common mental disorders among first year university students in South Africa. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2021; 56:1175-1187. [PMID: 33394071 PMCID: PMC7780593 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-020-01992-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Childhood maltreatment elevates risk for common mental disorders (CMDs) during late adolescence and adulthood. Although CMDs are highly prevalent among university students, few studies have examined the relationship between childhood maltreatment and 12 month CMDs in a low- to middle-income countries. This paper describes the prevalence of maltreatment and the relationship between type, number and patterns of maltreatment exposure and 12 month CMDs among first-year university students in South Africa. METHODS Maltreatment and CMD data were collected via well-validated self-report scales (corresponding with DSM-IV diagnoses) in a web-based survey of first-year students from two large urban universities (n = 1290) in South Africa. Various multivariate modelling approaches (additive, restrictive interactive and latent class) were used to examine the relationship between maltreatment and CMDs. RESULTS Overall, 48.4% of participants reported childhood maltreatment, the most common type being emotional abuse (26.7%). Regardless of the modelling approach used, emotional abuse was the only type of maltreatment independently associated with 12-month diagnoses of major depressive disorder (MDD), generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) or drug use disorder (DUD) even after adjusting for types and number of types of maltreatment. Similarly, students in the latent class reflecting histories of emotional abuse (either alone or combined with physical abuse) were more likely to meet criteria for 12-month MDD, GAD or DUD. CONCLUSION Findings confirm the high prevalence of childhood maltreatment among South African students. As this exposure elevates risk for MDD, GAD and DUD, interventions aimed at preventing and treating CMDs among first-year students should address experiences of childhood maltreatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bronwyn Myers
- Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, PO Box 19070, Tygerberg, 7505, South Africa. .,Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Jason Bantjes
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, 7602 South Africa
| | - Christine Lochner
- SAMRC Unit On Risk and Resilience in Mental Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Phillippe Mortier
- Group Health Services Research Group, IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Barcelona, Spain ,CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain ,Research Group Psychiatry, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven University, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ronald C. Kessler
- Department of Health Care Policy, Harvard Medical School, Harvard University, Boston, MA USA
| | - Dan J. Stein
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa ,SAMRC Unit on Risk and Resilience in Mental Disorders, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Awadalla S, Davies EB, Glazebrook C. A longitudinal cohort study to explore the relationship between depression, anxiety and academic performance among Emirati university students. BMC Psychiatry 2020; 20:448. [PMID: 32917172 PMCID: PMC7488388 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-020-02854-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many university students experience depression and anxiety, both of which have been shown to affect cognitive function. However, the impact of these emotional difficulties on academic performance is unclear. This study aims to determine the prevalence of depression and anxiety in university students in United Arab Emirates (UAE). It further seeks to explore the relationship between emotional difficulties and students' academic performance. METHODS This longitudinal study recruited 404 students (aged 17-25 years) attending one UAE university (80.4% response rate). At baseline, participants completed a paper-based survey to assess socio-economic factors and academic performance, including most recent grade point average (GPA) and attendance warnings. PHQ-9 and GAD-7 scales were used to assess depressive and anxiety symptoms. At six-month follow-up, 134 participants (33.3%) provided details of their current GPA. RESULTS Over a third of students (34.2%; CIs 29.7-38.9%) screened for possible major depressive disorder (MDD; PHQ-9 ≥ 10) but less than a quarter (22.3%; CIs 18.2-26.3%) screened for possible generalized anxiety disorder (GAD; GAD-7 ≥ 10). The Possible MDD group had lower GPAs (p = 0.003) at baseline and were less satisfied with their studies (p = 0.015). The MDD group also had lower GPAs at follow-up (p = 0.035). The Possible GAD group had lower GPAs at baseline (p = 0.003) but did not differ at follow-up. The relationship between GAD group and GPA was moderated by gender with female students in the Possible GAD group having lower GPAs (p < 0.001) than females in the Non-GAD group. Male students in the Possible GAD group had non-significantly higher GPA scores. Higher levels of both depression and anxiety symptoms scores were associated with lower GPAs at baseline. PHQ-9 scores, but not GAD-7 scores, independently predicted lower GPA scores at follow-up (p = 0.006). This relationship was no longer statistically significant after controlling for baseline GPA (p < 0.09). CONCLUSION This study confirms previous findings that around a third of university students are likely to be experiencing a depressive disorder at any one time. Furthermore, it provides important evidence regarding the negative impacts of emotional difficulties on students' academic performance. The results support the need to consider the mental health of students who are struggling academically and highlight the importance of signposting those students to appropriate support, including evidence-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suheir Awadalla
- Division of Psychiatry and Applied Psychology, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
- College of Natural and Health Sciences Department of Psychology, Zayed University, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - E Bethan Davies
- Division of Psychiatry and Applied Psychology, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
- NIHR MindTech MedTech Cooperative Institute of Mental Health, University of Nottingham Innovation Park, Jubilee Campus, Triumph Road, Nottingham, NG7 2TU, UK
| | - Cris Glazebrook
- Division of Psychiatry and Applied Psychology, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK.
- NIHR MindTech MedTech Cooperative Institute of Mental Health, University of Nottingham Innovation Park, Jubilee Campus, Triumph Road, Nottingham, NG7 2TU, UK.
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Mei G, Xu W, Li L, Zhao Z, Li H, Liu W, Jiao Y. The Role of Campus Data in Representing Depression Among College Students: Exploratory Research. JMIR Ment Health 2020; 7:e12503. [PMID: 32012070 PMCID: PMC7011126 DOI: 10.2196/12503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2018] [Revised: 07/15/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Depression is a predominant feature of many psychological problems leading to extreme behaviors and, in some cases, suicide. Campus information systems keep detailed and reliable student behavioral data; however, whether these data can reflect depression and we know the differences in behavior between depressive and nondepressive students are still research problems. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this paper is to investigate the behavioral patterns of depressed students by using multisource campus data and exploring the link between behavioral preferences and depressive symptoms. The campus data described in this paper include basic personal information, academic performance, poverty subsidy, consumption habit, daily routine, library behavior, and meal habit, totaling 121 features. METHODS To identify potentially depressive students, we developed an online questionnaire system based on a standard psychometric instrument, the Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS). To explore the differences in behavior of depressive and nondepressive students, the Mann-Whitney U test was applied. In order to investigate the behavioral features of different depressive symptoms, factor analysis was used to divide the questionnaire items into different symptom groups and then correlation analysis was employed to study the extrinsic characteristics of each depressive symptom. RESULTS The correlation between these factors and the features were computed. The results indicated that there were 25 features correlated with either 4 factors or SDS score. The statistical results indicated that depressive students were more likely to fail exams, have poor meal habits, have increased night activities and decreased morning activities, and engage less in social activities (eg, avoiding meal times with friends). Correlation analysis showed that the somatic factor 2 (F4) was negatively correlated with the number of library visits (r=-.179, P<.001), and, compared with other factors, had the greatest impact on students' daily schedule, eating and social habits. The biggest influencing factor to poor academic performance was cognitive factor F1, and its score was found to be significantly positively correlated with fail rate (r=.185, P=.02). CONCLUSIONS The results presented in this study indicate that campus data can reflect depression and its symptoms. By collecting a large amount of questionnaire data and combining machine learning algorithms, it is possible to realize an identification method of depression and depressive symptoms based on campus data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guang Mei
- Department of Control Science and Engineering, College of Electronic and Information Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Weisheng Xu
- Informatization Office, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Li Li
- Department of Control Science and Engineering, College of Electronic and Information Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhen Zhao
- Department of Control Science and Engineering, College of Electronic and Information Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hao Li
- Department of Control Science and Engineering, College of Electronic and Information Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenqing Liu
- Department of Control Science and Engineering, College of Electronic and Information Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yueming Jiao
- Department of Control Science and Engineering, College of Electronic and Information Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
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Bantjes J, Lochner C, Saal W, Roos J, Taljaard L, Page D, Auerbach RP, Mortier P, Bruffaerts R, Kessler RC, Stein DJ. Prevalence and sociodemographic correlates of common mental disorders among first-year university students in post-apartheid South Africa: implications for a public mental health approach to student wellness. BMC Public Health 2019; 19:922. [PMID: 31291925 PMCID: PMC6617861 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-019-7218-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Accepted: 06/20/2019] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background There is growing awareness of the need for effective prevention, early detection, and novel treatment approaches for common mental disorders (CMDs) among university students. Reliable epidemiological data on prevalence and correlates are the cornerstones of planning and implementing effective health services and adopting a public health approach to student wellness. Yet, there is a comparative lack of sound psychiatric epidemiological studies on CMDs among university students in low- and middle-income countries, like South Africa (SA). It is also unclear if historically marginalised groups of students are at increased risk for mental health problems in post-apartheid SA. The objective of the study was to investigate the prevalence and sociodemographic correlates of lifetime and 12-month CMDs among university students in SA, with a particular focus on vulnerability among students in historically excluded and marginalised segments of the population. Methods Data were collected via self-report measures in an online survey of first-year students registered at two large universities (n = 1402). CMDs were assessed with previously-validated screening scales. Data were weighted and analysed using multivariate statistical methods. Results A total of 38.5% of respondents reported at least one lifetime CMD, the most common being major depressive disorder (24.7%). Twelve-month prevalence of any CMD was 31.5%, with generalised anxiety disorder being the most common (20.8%). The median age of onset for any disorder was 15 years. The median proportional annual persistence of any disorder was 80.0%. Female students, students who reported an atypical sexual orientation, and students with disabilities were at significantly higher risk of any lifetime or 12-month disorder. Female gender, atypical sexual orientation, and disability were associated with elevated risk of internalising disorders, whereas male gender, identifying as White, and reporting an atypical sexual orientation were associated with elevated risk of externalising disorders. Older age, atypical sexual orientation, and disability were associated with elevated risk of bipolar spectrum disorder. Conclusions Despite advances to promote greater social inclusion in post-apartheid SA, students who identify as female, students with atypical sexual orientations, and students with disabilities are nonetheless at increased risk of CMDs, although students who identify as Black and first-generation students are not. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12889-019-7218-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason Bantjes
- Department of Psychology, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, 7602, South Africa.
| | - Christine Lochner
- MRC Unit on Risk and Resilience in Mental Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Wylene Saal
- Department of Psychology, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, 7602, South Africa
| | - Janine Roos
- MRC Unit on Risk and Resilience in Mental Disorders and Mental Health Information Centre of South Africa, Department of Psychiatry, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Lian Taljaard
- MRC Unit on Risk and Resilience in Mental Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Daniel Page
- Department of Psychology, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, 7602, South Africa
| | - Randy P Auerbach
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, USA
| | - Philippe Mortier
- Health Services Research Group, IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Barcelona, Spain.,CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain.,Research Group Psychiatry, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven University, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ronny Bruffaerts
- Universitair Psychiatrisch Centrum - Katholieke Universiteit Leuven (UPC-KUL), Campus Gasthuisberg, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ronald C Kessler
- Department of Healthcare Policy, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Dan J Stein
- MRC Unit on Risk and Resilience in Mental Disorders, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Kronfol Z, Khalifa B, Khoury B, Omar O, Daouk S, deWitt JP, ElAzab N, Eisenberg D. Selected psychiatric problems among college students in two Arab countries: comparison with the USA. BMC Psychiatry 2018; 18:147. [PMID: 29793465 PMCID: PMC5968475 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-018-1718-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2017] [Accepted: 05/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Psychiatric problems among college students on USA campuses are common. Little is known about similar problems in developing countries, particularly the Arab region. The goal of this study was to assess the frequency of selected psychiatric problems among college students in two Arab countries: Qatar and Lebanon, and to compare them to the USA. METHODS The Healthy Minds Study, an online confidential survey of common psychiatric symptoms designed for college campuses was used. We used the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) to screen for major depression, the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) to screen for generalized anxiety and the SCOFF questionnaire to screen for eating disorders. Comparisons were made using ANOVA, Chi-Square tests and logistic regressions. RESULTS A total of 1841 students participated in the study. The rates of depression (PHQ-9 ≥ 12), generalized anxiety (GAD-7 ≥ 10) and eating disorders (SCOFF≥3) at the combined Arab universities were 34.6, 36.1 and 20.4% respectively. The corresponding rates in the USA were: 12.8, 15.9 and 6.8% (p < 0.001 for all measures). The impact of psychiatric problems on functioning in general and academic performance in particular was more severe in the Arab countries compared to the USA (p < 0.001). Independent predictors of psychiatric problems in general included location, female gender, financial difficulties and poor grades. Being religious had a protective association with mental health. CONCLUSION The rates of depression, anxiety and eating disorders were significantly higher among college students in Qatar and Lebanon compared to the USA. Additional research is needed to determine whether these results reflect methodological limitations or true differences in psychopathology across these populations. If replicated, the results indicate that the psychiatric problems on college campuses in the USA are a microcosm of a global problem that needs global solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziad Kronfol
- Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Doha, Qatar. .,Weill Cornell Medicine, 445 E 69th St. Suite 432, New York, NY, 10021, USA.
| | - Batoul Khalifa
- 0000 0004 0634 1084grid.412603.2Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Brigitte Khoury
- 0000 0004 1936 9801grid.22903.3aAmerican University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Omar Omar
- Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sariah Daouk
- 0000 0004 1936 9801grid.22903.3aAmerican University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - J. P. deWitt
- 0000000086837370grid.214458.eUniversity of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA
| | | | - Daniel Eisenberg
- 0000000086837370grid.214458.eUniversity of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA
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Paton LW, Tiffin PA, Smith D, Dowell JS, Mwandigha LM. Predictors of fitness to practise declarations in UK medical undergraduates. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2018; 18:68. [PMID: 29622041 PMCID: PMC5887261 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-018-1167-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2017] [Accepted: 03/19/2018] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Misconduct during medical school predicts subsequent fitness to practise (FtP) events in doctors, but relatively little is known about which factors are associated with such issues during undergraduate education. This study exploits the newly created UK medical education database (UKMED), with the aim of identifying predictors of conduct or health-related issues that could potentially impair FtP. The findings would have implications for policies related to both the selection and support of medical students. METHODS Data were available for 14,379 students obtaining provisional registration with the General Medical Council who started medical school in 2007 and 2008. FtP declarations made by students were available, as were various educational and demographic predictor variables, including self-report 'personality measures' for students who participated in UK Clinical Aptitude Test (UKCAT) pilot studies. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression models were developed to evaluate the predictors of FtP declarations. RESULTS Significant univariable predictors (p < 0.05) for conduct-related declarations included male gender, white ethnicity and a non-professional parental background. Male gender (OR 3.07) and higher 'self-esteem' (OR 1.45) were independently associated with an increased risk of a conduct issue. Female gender, a non-professional background, and lower self-reported 'confidence' were, among others, associated with increased odds of a health-related declaration. Only 'confidence' was a significant independent predictor of a health declaration (OR 0.69). Female gender, higher UKCAT score, a non-professional background and lower 'confidence' scores were significant predictors of reported depression, and the latter two variables were independent predictors of declared depression. CONCLUSIONS White ethnicity and UK nationality were associated with increased odds of both conduct and health-related declarations, as were certain personality traits. Students from non-professional backgrounds may be at increased risk of depression and therefore could benefit from targeted support. The small effect sizes observed for the 'personality measures' suggest they would offer little potential benefit for selection, over and above those measures already in use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lewis W. Paton
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, Heslington, York, YO10 5DD UK
| | - Paul A. Tiffin
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, Heslington, York, YO10 5DD UK
| | - Daniel Smith
- General Medical Council, Regent’s Place, London, NW1 3JN UK
| | - Jon S. Dowell
- School of Medicine Deanery, University of Dundee, Dundee, DD1 9SY UK
| | - Lazaro M. Mwandigha
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, Heslington, York, YO10 5DD UK
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Percy A, McKay MT, Perry JL, Cole JC. Refining the clinical application of the consideration of future consequences scale -14. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s12144-018-9819-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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Mental health, behavioural problems and treatment seeking among students commencing university in Northern Ireland. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0188785. [PMID: 29236727 PMCID: PMC5728481 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0188785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2017] [Accepted: 11/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Mental health and behavioural problems are common among students commencing university. University life can be stressful and problems often exacerbate during their course of study, while others develop disorders for the first time. The WHO World Mental Health Surveys International College Student Project aims to conduct longitudinal research to examine and monitor student mental health and wellbeing. The Ulster University Student Wellbeing study, which commenced in September 2015 in Northern Ireland (NI), was conducted as part of this initiative (wave 1, n = 739), using the WMH-CIDI to examine psychopathology. Baseline prevalence rates of lifetime and 12-month mental health and substance disorders, ADHD and suicidality were high, with more than half of new undergraduate students reporting any lifetime disorder. Co-morbidity was common with 19.1% of students experiencing three or more disorders. Logistic regression models revealed that females, those over 21, non-heterosexual students, and those from a lower SES background were more likely to have a range of mental health and behavioural problems. Overall, 10% of new entry students received treatment for emotional problems in the previous year. However, 22.3% of students with problems said they would not seek help. The study provides important information for universities, policy makers and practice, on mental health and wellbeing in young people generally but particularly for students commencing university. The findings will assist in the development and implementation of protection and prevention strategies in the university setting and beyond.
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An integrative study of motivation and goal regulation processes in subclinical anxiety, depression and hypomania. Psychiatry Res 2017; 256:6-12. [PMID: 28618249 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2017.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2016] [Revised: 05/23/2017] [Accepted: 06/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Research has implicated motivation and goal regulation in susceptibility to mood disorders. We studied for the first time key facets of motivation and goal regulation concurrently in relation to affective symptoms. The cross-national sample comprised 510 university students from the United States (n = 279) and United Kingdom (n = 231). Participants completed self-report measures of motivation, conditional goal setting, urgency, depression, anxiety, and mania risk. Structural Equation Modeling results found that behavioral activation system scores correlated negatively with depression and positively with mania risk, but were unrelated to anxiety. High conditional goal setting correlated uniquely with higher depression but not to anxiety or mania risk. Urgency correlated with higher anxiety, depression, and mania risk. Behavioral inhibition system scores correlated negatively with mania risk but unexpectedly did not correlate with anxiety in the multivariate model. The behavioral activation, behavioral inhibition, conditional goal setting, and urgency results showed shared and distinct patterns of relationships with depression, anxiety and mania risk. Our findings indicate unique and common risk vulnerabilities in depressive, anxious, and manic syndromes and extend an integrative knowledge of these syndromes in relation to goal regulation.
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Xu Y, Qi J, Yang Y, Wen X. The contribution of lifestyle factors to depressive symptoms: A cross-sectional study in Chinese college students. Psychiatry Res 2016; 245:243-249. [PMID: 27565695 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2016.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2015] [Revised: 12/09/2015] [Accepted: 03/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
It is well known that some lifestyle factors are related to depression, but their cumulative contribution to the depression remains unclear. This study aimed to assess the importance of multiple lifestyle factors in contributing to depressive symptoms among Chinese college students. Between September and December in 2012, we conducted a cross-sectional study among 1907 Chinese college students from Guangzhou, Southern China. College students completed self-administered questionnaires and reported their lifestyle factors including sleep quality and duration, Internet use, smoking, drinking, exercise, outdoor activity or sunlight exposure, and eating breakfast. Depression was measured using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D), and mild-to-moderate depressive symptoms were defined as the CES-D score ≥16. Among all the students, 29.7% reported mild-to-moderate depressive symptoms. Higher quality and longer duration of sleep, more exercises, more outdoor activities or sunlight exposures, and eating breakfast daily were associated with a lower CES-D score, which could explain 11.3% of variance of the CES-D score, after adjusting for socio-demographics, family history, interpersonal relationship, and academic characteristics using hierarchical multivariable linear regression. These associations were comparable between males and females. The protective role of healthy lifestyles should be considered in intervention programs for improving mental health among college students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Xu
- Department of Non-communicable Chronic Disease Prevention and Control, Baoan Chronic Diseases Prevent and Cure Hospital, Baoan District, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Juan Qi
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi Yang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Xiaozhong Wen
- Division of Behavioral Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, 3435 Main St., G56 Farber Hall, Buffalo, NY 14214-3000, USA.
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Temporal profiles relate meaningfully to anxiety and depression in university undergraduates. PERSONALITY AND INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.paid.2016.05.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Horgan A, Sweeney J, Behan L, McCarthy G. Depressive symptoms, college adjustment and peer support among undergraduate nursing and midwifery students. J Adv Nurs 2016; 72:3081-3092. [DOI: 10.1111/jan.13074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Aine Horgan
- School of Nursing and Midwifery; Brookfield Health Sciences Complex; University College Cork; Ireland
| | - John Sweeney
- Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland; Dublin Ireland
| | - Laura Behan
- School of Applied Psychology; University College Cork; Ireland
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Davies EB, Wardlaw J, Morriss R, Glazebrook C. An experimental study exploring the impact of vignette gender on the quality of university students' mental health first aid for peers with symptoms of depression. BMC Public Health 2016; 16:187. [PMID: 26911725 PMCID: PMC4766614 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-016-2887-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2015] [Accepted: 02/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background University students have high rates of depression, and friends are often the most commonly-used source of support for emotional distress in this population. This study aimed to explore students’ ability to provide effective support for their peers with depressive symptoms and the factors influencing the quality of their mental health first aid (MHFA) skills, including students’ gender, course of study, and gender of student experiencing depression. Methods Via an online survey, students at two British universities (N = 483) were quasi-randomly allocated to view a video vignette of either a male or female student depicting symptoms of depression. An open-ended question probed MHFA actions they would take to help the vignette character, which were rated using a standardised scoring scheme based on MHFA guidelines. Results Students reported low MHFA scores (mean 2.89, out of possible 12). The most commonly reported action was provision of support and information, but only eight (1.6 %) students stated an intention to assess risk of harm. Those studying clinically non-relevant degrees with limited mental health content reported poorer MHFA (p = <0.001) and were less confident about their ability to support a friend with depression (p = 0.04). There was no main effect of vignette gender, but within the group of students on non-relevant courses the male vignette received significantly poorer MHFA than the female vignette (p = 0.02). A significant three-way interaction found that male participants studying non-relevant degrees who viewed a male vignette had poorer MHFA compared to females studying non-relevant degrees who viewed the female vignette (p = 0.005). Conclusions Most students lack the necessary MHFA skills to support friends suffering from symptoms of depression, or to help them get appropriate support and prevent risk of harm. Students on courses which do not include mental health related content are particularly ill-equipped to support male students, with male students receiving the poorest quality MHFA from fellow male students on these courses. MHFA training has the potential to improve outcomes for students with depression, and could have a valuable role in reducing the excess risk of harm seen in male students. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12889-016-2887-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Bethan Davies
- Division of Psychiatry and Applied Psychology, School of Medicine, Institute of Mental Health, The University of Nottingham, Triumph Road, Nottingham, NG7 2TU, UK. .,NIHR MindTech Healthcare Technology Co-operative, Institute of Mental Health, The University of Nottingham, Triumph Road, Nottingham, NG7 2TU, UK.
| | - John Wardlaw
- School of Medicine, The University of Nottingham, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK.
| | - Richard Morriss
- Division of Psychiatry and Applied Psychology, School of Medicine, Institute of Mental Health, The University of Nottingham, Triumph Road, Nottingham, NG7 2TU, UK. .,NIHR MindTech Healthcare Technology Co-operative, Institute of Mental Health, The University of Nottingham, Triumph Road, Nottingham, NG7 2TU, UK.
| | - Cris Glazebrook
- Division of Psychiatry and Applied Psychology, School of Medicine, Institute of Mental Health, The University of Nottingham, Triumph Road, Nottingham, NG7 2TU, UK. .,NIHR MindTech Healthcare Technology Co-operative, Institute of Mental Health, The University of Nottingham, Triumph Road, Nottingham, NG7 2TU, UK.
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Yu Y, Yang X, Yang Y, Chen L, Qiu X, Qiao Z, Zhou J, Pan H, Ban B, Zhu X, He J, Ding Y, Bai B. The Role of Family Environment in Depressive Symptoms among University Students: A Large Sample Survey in China. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0143612. [PMID: 26629694 PMCID: PMC4667844 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0143612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2015] [Accepted: 11/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To explore the relationship between family environment and depressive symptoms and to evaluate the influence of hard and soft family environmental factors on depression levels in a large sample of university students in China. Methods A multi-stage stratified sampling procedure was used to select 6,000 participants. The response rate was 88.8%, with 5,329 students completing the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and the Family Environment Scale Chinese Version (FES-CV), which was adapted for the Chinese population. Differences between the groups were tested for significance by the Student’s t-test; ANOVA was used to test continuous variables. The relationship between soft family environmental factors and BDI were tested by Pearson correlation analysis. Hierarchical linear regression analysis was conducted to model the effects of hard environmental factors and soft environmental factors on depression in university students. Results A total of 11.8% of students scored above the threshold of moderate depression(BDI≧14). Hard family environmental factors such as parent relationship, family economic status, level of parental literacy and non-intact family structure were associated with depressive symptoms. The soft family environmental factors—conflict and control—were positively associated with depression, while cohesion was negatively related to depressive symptom after controlling for other important associates of depression. Hierarchical regression analysis indicated that the soft family environment correlates more strongly with depression than the hard family environment. Conclusions Soft family environmental factors—especially cohesion, conflict and control—appeared to play an important role in the occurrence of depressive symptoms. These findings underline the significance of the family environment as a source of risk factors for depression among university students in China and suggest that family-based interventions and improvement are very important to reduce depression among university students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunmiao Yu
- Department of Psychology, Public Health Institute, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Xiuxian Yang
- Department of Psychology, Public Health Institute, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yanjie Yang
- Department of Psychology, Public Health Institute, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- * E-mail:
| | - Lu Chen
- Department of Endocrinology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaohui Qiu
- Department of Psychology, Public Health Institute, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Zhengxue Qiao
- Department of Psychology, Public Health Institute, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Jiawei Zhou
- Department of Psychology, Public Health Institute, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Hui Pan
- Department of Endocrinology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Bo Ban
- Department of Endocrinology, Jining Medical College, Jining, China
| | - Xiongzhao Zhu
- Medical Psychological Institute, SecondXiangyaHospital, CentralSouthUniversity, Changsha, China
| | - Jincai He
- The First Affiliated Hospital, WenzhouMedicalUniversity, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yongqing Ding
- The fifth affiliated hospital, HarbinMedicalUniversity, Daqing, China
| | - Bing Bai
- The First Affiliated Hospital, HarbinMedicalUniversity, Harbin, China
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