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Greene E, Austin G, Henneman A. Adverse childhood experiences among doctor of pharmacy students. CURRENTS IN PHARMACY TEACHING & LEARNING 2024; 16:327-334. [PMID: 38480066 DOI: 10.1016/j.cptl.2024.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) have demonstrated negative impact on physical, emotional, and cognitive health outcomes. This study aimed to assess prevalence of ACEs among Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) students, and their associations with mental health, substance use, academic performance, and sleep patterns. METHODS A cross-sectional survey was conducted on PharmD students at a private University. ACE scores, mental health history, substance use, academic performance, and sleep habits were self-reported. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were used for analysis. RESULTS From 54 participants across all cohorts of students in the curriculum (response rate: 19%), 48% reported ≥4 ACEs. A majority of students reported having been diagnosed with or sought treatment for depression (56%) or anxiety (67%), while 42.9% reported a history of contemplating suicide. Participants with ACE scores of ≥4 were more likely to have sought treatment for depression, any mental health condition, contemplated suicide, or used alcohol for mental health purposes. No differences in academic performance based on ACE scores were found. CONCLUSION High numbers of ACEs were common and linked to mental illness, suicidality, and use of alcohol for mental health purposes. While no direct academic impact was found in this small sample size, adopting a trauma-informed approach is crucial to supporting student well-being. Further research in this area is needed to optimize interventions to support academic and professional success among students with ≥4 ACEs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Greene
- Belmont University College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, 1900 Belmont Blvd, Nashville, TN 37212, United States of America.
| | - Gary Austin
- Belmont University College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, 1900 Belmont Blvd, Nashville, TN 37212, United States of America.
| | - Amy Henneman
- Belmont University College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, 1900 Belmont Blvd, Nashville, TN 37212, United States of America; Department of Integrated Medical Education, Belmont University Thomas F. Frist, Jr. College of Medicine, 1900 Belmont Blvd, Nashville, TN 37212, United States of America.
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Horton AG, Chalco EF, Cuellar M, Paredes GIM, Cuellar N. Impact of COVID-19 on Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Coping, and Grief in Pre-Health Professional Students in Lima, Peru. HISPANIC HEALTH CARE INTERNATIONAL 2024; 22:46-55. [PMID: 37731323 DOI: 10.1177/15404153231197599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Peru had the world's highest death rate of COVID-19 with 213,000+ deaths and counting (Beaubien, 2021). Hospitalization and care for COVID-19 patients with limited resources has added stress to the shortage of frontline workers and resulted in students filling in the gap in acute care clinical settings. The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of COVID-19 on mental health (e.g., depression, anxiety, stress, and coping) and grief on undergraduate nursing and pharmacy students in Lima, Peru. Methods: This was a quantitative, descriptive study that examined students' self-report of mental health and grief at baseline during data collection. Results: Significant findings were reported in coping based on death of family member of COVID-19 (p = .02). Anxiety was positively correlated with grief (Rho = 0.35, p < .001), stress (Rho = 0.53, p < .001), and depression (Rho = 0.76, p < .001). Grief was positively correlated with stress (Rho = 0.25, p < .001) and depression (Rho = 0.39, p < .001). Finally, stress was positively correlated with depression (Rho = 0.51, p < .001). Discussion: This is the first study to explore nursing and pharmacy students' perceptions on how the COVID-19 pandemic impacted their mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Norma Cuellar
- The University of Alabama, Capstone College of Nursing, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
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Nagy DK, Hall JJ, Charrois TL. Professional Fulfillment and Burnout in Fourth-Year Pharmacy Students and Risk Factors for the Future: A Mixed Methods Study. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL EDUCATION 2024; 88:100667. [PMID: 38331198 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpe.2024.100667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Many factors shape the professional identity of pharmacy students; however, little is known about the influence of well-being. Two aspects of well-being explored in this study include professional fulfillment and burnout. We describe the current levels of each among fourth-year pharmacy students, identify possible predictors, and uncover themes. METHODS The Stanford Professional Fulfillment Index was used to measure professional fulfillment and burnout among students in the prior 2 weeks. Multivariable linear regressions were conducted to identify individual characteristics and activities as predictors of professional fulfillment and burnout. Upon completion of activities to foster personal wellness, student self-reflections were analyzed using thematic analysis to describe student-perceived barriers and facilitators of professional fulfillment and burnout. RESULTS In total 54 students completed the Professional Fulfillment Index, wellness activities, and self-reflection. Having already completed the jurisprudence examination required for licensure and having a job upon graduation were statistically significantly associated with higher professional fulfillment scores. We identified that working in a non-pharmacy-related job, while completing practicums, was statistically significantly associated with higher work exhaustion scores. Themes uncovered from student self-reflections included a definition of wellness, how doing what you are supposed to be doing and working in a psychologically and physically safe environment contributes to professional fulfillment, and system-level factors leading to burnout. CONCLUSION This study provides evidence of the importance of supporting pharmacy students in the completion of the steps to licensure, the value of exposure to a variety of pharmacist-related activities through experiential education, and well-being as foundational to professional identity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle K Nagy
- University of Alberta, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Jill J Hall
- University of Alberta, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
| | - Theresa L Charrois
- University of British Columbia, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Kalkbrenner MT, Huycke M, Sun H. Factorial invariance of college students' scores on the Lifestyle Practices and Health Consciousness Inventory. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2024:1-9. [PMID: 38330349 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2024.2308269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aims of the present study were to validate college students' scores on the Lifestyle Practices and Health Consciousness Inventory (LPHCI), a screening tool for appraising Global Wellness (combined mental and physical health) and test for differences in Global Wellness across key demographic variables associated with college student health. METHOD A non-probability sample of 708 college students across four campus locations in three different cities was recruited to test the LPHCI's psychometric properties. RESULTS Factorial invariance testing demonstrated psychometric equivalence in the meaning of Global Wellness between college students across ethnicity, generational status, and help-seeking history. We also found statistically, however, not practically significant demographic differences in Global Wellness between college students by ethnicity and help-seeking history. CONCLUSION Findings extend the generalizability of LPHCI scores to a normative sample of college students. Implications for college healthcare providers and directions for future research are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael T Kalkbrenner
- Department of Counseling and Educational Psychology, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, New Mexico, USA
| | - Matt Huycke
- Department of Counseling and Educational Psychology, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, New Mexico, USA
| | - Hannah Sun
- Department of Counseling and Educational Psychology, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, New Mexico, USA
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Smith SR, Banuelos L, Trujillo N, Farihi D, Lee S, Truong S, Ly T, Dadiomov D, Kawahara N, Gavaza P. Adverse childhood experiences among California student pharmacists. Ment Health Clin 2024; 14:1-9. [PMID: 38312442 PMCID: PMC10836563 DOI: 10.9740/mhc.2024.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are associated with higher mental and physical illness and substance use disorders in adulthood. However, little is known about the prevalence of ACEs among student pharmacists and the factors associated with exposure. Our objective was to determine the prevalence of ACEs, resilience, and maladaptive coping strategies among student pharmacists in California. Methods Student pharmacists from 14 California pharmacy schools completed a 24-item online survey in 2020. This survey instrument comprised the ACEs questionnaire and collected data on the students' demographic characteristics, coping strategies, and resilience. Results Most respondents were Asian/Pacific Islander (n = 186, 61.0%), female (n = 216, 70.8%), and aged between 25 and 31 years (n = 154, 50.7%). Many (n = 137, 44.9%) students had more than 1 ACE exposure; 66 students (21.6%) had more than 3 ACEs. Many students indicated that they were diagnosed or suspected to be diagnosed with a mental health condition (n = 105, 34.4%) and agreed/strongly agreed that they struggled to manage the workload of pharmacy school (n = 119, 39.9%). Respondents with higher ACE scores (> 3) were more likely to report struggling with managing the workload of pharmacy school, have or suspect having a mental health condition, drink alcohol in the last 12 months, and/or have multiple sexual partners than students with lower ACE scores. Discussion More than 1 in 5 student pharmacists in this study were exposed to more than 3 ACEs. The student pharmacists' ACE exposure was associated with higher likelihood of mental health conditions and high-risk health behaviors. Further studies are needed to investigate this topic among student pharmacists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shawn R Smith
- PGY1 Pharmacy Resident, University of Maryland Medical Center, Baltimore, Maryland
- PGY1 Acute Care Pharmacy Resident, Stanford Health Care, Palo Alto, California
- PGY1 Pharmacy Resident, MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center, Long Beach, California
- PGY2 Critical Care Pharmacy Resident, University of California Davis Health, Sacramento, California
- PGY1 Pharmacy Resident, Veterans Affairs Sierra Nevada Health Care System, Reno, Nevada
- Ambulatory Care Pharmacist, Kaiser Permanente-San Bernardino County, Fontana, California
- Assistant Professor of Clinical Pharmacy; Director, PGY2 Psychiatric Residency, University of Southern California Alfred E. Mann School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Los Angeles, California
- Associate Professor/Associate Dean, Community Engagement, Loma Linda University School of Pharmacy, Loma Linda, California
- Associate Professor/Department Chair, Loma Linda University School of Pharmacy, Loma Linda, California
| | - Leslie Banuelos
- PGY1 Pharmacy Resident, University of Maryland Medical Center, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Nalea Trujillo
- PGY1 Acute Care Pharmacy Resident, Stanford Health Care, Palo Alto, California
| | - Destiny Farihi
- PGY1 Pharmacy Resident, MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center, Long Beach, California
| | - Stephanie Lee
- PGY2 Critical Care Pharmacy Resident, University of California Davis Health, Sacramento, California
| | - Sharon Truong
- PGY1 Pharmacy Resident, Veterans Affairs Sierra Nevada Health Care System, Reno, Nevada
| | - Tracy Ly
- Ambulatory Care Pharmacist, Kaiser Permanente-San Bernardino County, Fontana, California
| | - David Dadiomov
- Assistant Professor of Clinical Pharmacy; Director, PGY2 Psychiatric Residency, University of Southern California Alfred E. Mann School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Los Angeles, California
| | - Nancy Kawahara
- Associate Professor/Associate Dean, Community Engagement, Loma Linda University School of Pharmacy, Loma Linda, California
| | - Paul Gavaza
- Associate Professor/Department Chair, Loma Linda University School of Pharmacy, Loma Linda, California
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Newman K, Larson S, Ruble MJ, Thomason Watts M. A Call to Action to Address Well-Being Within Experiential Education. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL EDUCATION 2023; 87:100078. [PMID: 37714656 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpe.2023.100078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/17/2023]
Abstract
There is a significant lack of literature exploring or describing pharmacy student well-being during experiential learning even though students spend 30% of their doctor of pharmacy curricula in this environment. Drawing on inspiration from literature describing well-being challenges and solutions for pharmacy residents and other health disciplines, this commentary explores the unique challenges of supporting pharmacy student well-being during experiential education. Approaches for interventions are described along with a call to action for the academy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Newman
- Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, Edwardsville, IL, USA.
| | | | - Melissa J Ruble
- University of South Florida Health, Taneja College of Pharmacy, Tampa, FL, USA
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Vickery PB, Wick K, McKee J. Evaluating the perceptions of a required didactic Mental Health First Aid training course among first-year pharmacy students. CURRENTS IN PHARMACY TEACHING & LEARNING 2023; 15:824-828. [PMID: 37543523 DOI: 10.1016/j.cptl.2023.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training was designed to help participants identify mental health challenges and provide support to those in need. The objective of this study was to evaluate the perceptions of a required first-year didactic MHFA course and to determine if MHFA reduces stigma and increases confidence in first-year pharmacy students' abilities to offer help to those experiencing a mental health challenge or a crisis. EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITY AND SETTING Participants were first-year doctor of pharmacy students at a single site in the United States. Methods include the utilization of a survey-based study among a single pharmacy program. Students enrolled in this required MHFA training were asked to voluntarily complete pre- and post-training surveys. FINDINGS A total of 69 first-year pharmacy students participated in the MHFA training. Results demonstrated that students agreed with being able to identify stigmatizing words associated with mental health disorders and that they will work to reduce or avoid using words that can be perceived as stigmatizing related to mental health (P < .001). Students reported increased confidence in their ability to start a conversation with someone who may need mental health help compared to their confidence level before the training (P < .001). SUMMARY Completing MHFA training during the early phases of didactic education can help reduce stigma and increase confidence in abilities to help those experiencing a mental health challenge. Programs should consider implementing MHFA or similar training early in the didactic curriculum.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Brittany Vickery
- Pharmacy, Wingate University School of Pharmacy - Hendersonville Health Sciences Center, 805 6(th) Avenue West, Hendersonville, NC 28739, United States.
| | - Kendall Wick
- Loma Linda University Health, 11157 Anderson St, Loma Linda, CA 92354, United States
| | - Jerry McKee
- Psychopharm Solutions LLC, 135 Pearson Drive, Morganton, NC 28655, United States
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Clavero MA, Visacri MB, Lima TDM, Rotta I, Aguiar PM. Prevalence and incidence of depressive symptoms in pharmacy students: A systematic review. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2023; 63:1452-1460. [PMID: 37354939 DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2023.06.012] [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: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pharmacy students are at high risk of developing depressive symptoms that can adversely influence their professional future. However, there are no summarized data on the subject. OBJECTIVE To summarize the prevalence and incidence of depressive symptoms in pharmacy students. METHODS A literature search was performed using PubMed, PsycINFO, CINAHL, LILACS, and SCOPUS databases until January 2022. We included observational studies that assessed the prevalence or incidence of depressive symptoms among pharmacy students using a validated screening instrument. Two independent investigators performed the study selection, data extraction, and quality assessment using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) checklist for prevalence studies. The estimate of depressive symptoms was summarized as a narrative synthesis using structured tables. RESULTS Of the 695 records retrieved in the search, 19 studies met the eligibility criteria. All were cross-sectional studies, published between 2009 and 2022. The number of pharmacy students ranged from 30 to 610. Most studies were conducted in Asia (n = 9) and the Americas (n = 7), and included only public university students (n = 12). The studies used several instruments to screen students for depressive symptoms, mainly Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (n = 7), Beck Depression Inventory (n = 5), and Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale 21 (n = 4). Most studies (n = 15) evaluated only the prevalence of depressive symptoms. The estimate of overall, mild, moderate, and severe depressive symptoms ranged from 4.8% to 78.8%, 9.1% to 42.1%, 5.8% to 30.0%, and 0% to 50.0%, respectively. Regarding methodological quality, the score ranged from 4 to 7 out of 9 points according to the JBI checklist. CONCLUSION A high proportion of depressive symptoms were observed in pharmacy students. This finding points to the urgent need to develop strategies for screening, early identification of symptoms, and intervention to improve the mental health of students.
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McKeirnan KC, MacCamy KL, Robinson JD, Ebinger M, Willson MN. Implementing Mental Health First Aid Training in a Doctor of Pharmacy Program. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL EDUCATION 2023; 87:100006. [PMID: 37597905 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpe.2023.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In this study, we aimed to describe the implementation of Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training as a required curricular component in a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program; and analyze the impact of MHFA training on student pharmacist's perceptions of stigma, comfort, confidence, and willingness to intervene when someone is experiencing a mental health issue. METHODS Student pharmacists completed an all-day MHFA training as a required element of the PharmD curriculum during the spring of 2022. Pre- and post-survey was completed by students during the in-person training. Questions included items from the Opening Minds to Stigma Scale for Healthcare Providers; question, persuade, refer gatekeeper training for suicide prevention; and questions developed by the authors to assess the impact of the training on participant-reported stigma, confidence, and willingness to provide care to those potentially experiencing a mental issue. RESULTS A total of 235 student pharmacists completed the MHFA training. A statistically significant reduction of stigma was seen for 9 of the 15 statements from Opening Minds to Stigma Scale for Healthcare Providers. Additionally, all responses related to comfort and willingness to provide care and confidence improved significantly after completing MHFA. CONCLUSION MHFA training was implemented as a mandatory requirement for all student pharmacists in the didactic portion of a PharmD program. This training led to reduced stigma around mental illness and improved confidence, comfort, and willingness to intervene among student pharmacists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly C McKeirnan
- Washington State University College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Spokane, WA, USA
| | - Kathryn L MacCamy
- Washington State University College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Spokane, WA, USA
| | - Jennifer D Robinson
- Washington State University College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Spokane, WA, USA
| | - Michael Ebinger
- Washington State University College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Spokane, WA, USA
| | - Megan N Willson
- Washington State University College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Spokane, WA, USA.
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Robinson ET, Cochrane ZR, Akiyode O, Chahine EB, Culhane JM, Do DP, Franson KL, Minze MG, Ross LJ. Envisioning the Future of Student Success: Report of the 2022-2023 AACP Student Affairs Standing Committee. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL EDUCATION 2023; 87:100559. [PMID: 37459913 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpe.2023.100559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
Over the past several years, traditional metrics have indicated declining student success within colleges and schools of pharmacy. Though students may be less well-prepared for professional school than in years past, once candidates are admitted to our institutions, we have a responsibility to effectively support their progression through the program. The 2022-2023 Student Affairs Committee was convened to evaluate and advance the construct of student success within Doctor of Pharmacy programs. The Student Affairs Committee was charged with identifying environmental factors affecting the ability of pharmacy students to be successful; determining how colleges and schools of pharmacy are currently meeting needs related to student progress; conducting a literature review to determine what academic support measures minimize attrition; and developing innovative suggestions and recommendations that better support student success. To accomplish this work, we conducted an extensive literature review and synthesis of evidence, engaged in professional networking across the Academy, and administered a wide-ranging student success survey to all colleges and schools of pharmacy. In this report, we explore the complex and interacting systems that affect learning behavior and academic success and offer a novel, comprehensive description of how the Academy is currently responding to challenges of academic and student success. Additionally, we envision the future of student success, offering 7 recommendations to the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy and 5 suggestions to members of the Academy to advance this vision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan T Robinson
- Creighton University, School of Pharmacy and Health Professions, Omaha, NE, USA.
| | | | | | - Elias B Chahine
- Palm Beach Atlantic University, Gregory School of Pharmacy, West Palm Beach, FL, USA
| | - James M Culhane
- Notre Dame of Maryland University, School of Pharmacy, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Duc P Do
- University of Georgia, College of Pharmacy, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Kari L Franson
- University of Southern California, Alfred E. Mann School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Molly G Minze
- Texas Tech University, Health Sciences Center Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Libby J Ross
- Northern Virginia Dental Society, Annandale, VA, USA
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Manana M, Ntuli ST, Mokwena K, Maaga K. Prevalence and Risk Factors for Anxiety Symptoms among Student Nurses in Gauteng Province of South Africa. Behav Sci (Basel) 2023; 13:630. [PMID: 37622771 PMCID: PMC10452000 DOI: 10.3390/bs13080630] [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: 06/17/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Globally, mental disorders are common among nursing students; therefore, effective prevention and early detection are urgently needed. However, the prevalence rate of anxiety symptoms has not been investigated in South African nursing colleges. Aim: The study aimed to assess the prevalence of anxiety symptoms and their sociodemographic risk factors among nursing students in Gauteng province, South Africa. Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted at Chris Hani Baragwanath and SG Lourens nursing colleges in the first week of June 2022. A purposeful sampling technique selected the third- and fourth-year nursing students aged ≥ 18 years registered at the two nursing colleges. The seven-item Generalised Anxiety Disorder scale was used to assess anxiety symptoms. Results: The prevalence of anxiety symptoms was 74.7% (95% confidence interval: 69.9-78.9). Being a student at nursing college B, being in the fourth academic year of study and use of substances were identified as predictors of anxiety symptoms in these nursing students. Conclusions: The prevalence of anxiety symptoms in this study is relatively high, with predictors of developing anxiety being a student at nursing college B, in the fourth academic year and current use of psychoactive substances were predictors of anxiety symptoms. These findings highlight the need to develop interventions and strategies to promote mental health assessments and management to prevent and reduce the problem of mental disorders among nursing students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maleke Manana
- Department of Public Health, School of Health Care Sciences, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria 0204, South Africa (K.M.)
| | - Sam Thembelihle Ntuli
- Department of Statistical Sciences, School of Science and Technology, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria 0204, South Africa
| | - Kebogile Mokwena
- Department of Public Health, School of Health Care Sciences, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria 0204, South Africa (K.M.)
| | - Kgomotso Maaga
- Department of Public Health, School of Health Care Sciences, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria 0204, South Africa (K.M.)
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Mills JM, VanAtta CN, Hendershot RS, Rao S. Pharmacy Students' Perceptions of Remote versus Face-to-Face Learning Experience. PHARMACY 2023; 11:97. [PMID: 37368423 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy11030097] [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: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a large shift from face-to-face (FTF) to remote learning. Evaluating students' perceptions of remote learning provides educators with opportunity to inform their instructional methods. This study sought to evaluate pharmacy students' self-perceived (1) confidence, (2) preparedness, (3) satisfaction, and (4) motivation following remote vs. FTF classes. An electronic survey was distributed to six pharmacy student cohorts enrolled in the University of Findlay College of Pharmacy during April 2021 to measure the objectives. The Kruskal-Wallis, Mann-Whitney U, and Spearman's rank correlation tests were used to analyze the data (alpha = 0.05). A total of 151 students completed the survey. While the responses differed among the cohorts, first-professional year students reported lower motivation to study (p = 0.008), engage (p = 0.008), satisfaction with content presentation (p = 0.05), preparedness for exams (p < 0.001), and confidence to communicate (p = 0.008) and succeed in a career (p < 0.001) when studying remotely vs. taking FTF classes compared to fourth-professional year students. Positive correlations were observed between students who felt motivated to engage and study (ρ = 0.501, p < 0.001), motivated to study and exam preparedness (ρ = 0.511, p < 0.001), satisfied with course material presentation and professor accessibility (ρ = 0.688, p < 0.001), and exam preparedness (ρ = 0.521, p < 0.001), and felt prepared for exams and able to succeed in a pharmacy career (ρ = 0.573, p < 0.001). Taking the above results into consideration, pharmacy educators may designate more time and instructional support to first-professional year students in an effort to improve students' perceptions of motivation, satisfaction, confidence, and preparedness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenna M Mills
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, University of Findlay, Findlay, OH 45840, USA
| | - Celeste N VanAtta
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, University of Findlay, Findlay, OH 45840, USA
| | | | - Shantanu Rao
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Findlay, Findlay, OH 45840, USA
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Kodweis KR, Jasmin HM, Hall EA, Havrda DE. Exploring the Relationship Between Imposter Phenomenon and Myers-Briggs Personality Types in Pharmacy Education. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL EDUCATION 2023; 87:100076. [PMID: 37316121 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpe.2023.100076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the relationship between imposter phenomenon (IP) and Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) personality types in pharmacy students. METHODS This was a retrospective, observational study of doctor of pharmacy students who had previously completed MBTI and Clance Imposter Phenomenon Scale (CIPS) assessments. CIPS scores and categories were compared between the 4 MBTI personality type dichotomies using independent samples t tests and chi-square. RESULTS Mean CIPS score for included pharmacy students (N = 668) was 62.52 (SD 14.82). Clance Imposter Phenomenon Scale scores were significantly higher in students with MBTI of introversion (mean 64.14, SD 14.27), intuition (mean 63.80, SD 15.78), and perceiving (mean 64.38, SD 15.55) as compared to their dichotomous counterparts. No significant difference in mean CIPS scores was found within the thinking/feeling dichotomy. When analyzing IP risk associated with the various MBTI personality dichotomies, introverts were at a 1.8 times greater risk of high/severe IP than extroverts. Additionally, students with perceiving personality types were at a 1.4 times greater risk of high/severe IP than those with judging personality types. CONCLUSION Our study suggests that pharmacy students with introversion, intuitive, and perceptive personality types exhibit higher CIPS scores, and those with introversion or perceptive personality types are at risk for high/severe IP. Given the common MBTI types and a high degree of IP in pharmacy students, our findings underlie the need for open, targeted discussions about IP and proactively incorporating strategies and resources within a curriculum to support students in normalizing and easing anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karl R Kodweis
- University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Pharmacy, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Hilary M Jasmin
- University of Tennessee Health Science Center Health Sciences Library, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Hall
- University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Pharmacy, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Dawn E Havrda
- University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Pharmacy, Memphis, TN, USA.
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Lee KC, Huang R, Tal IR, Downs N, Zisook S. Comparison of Suicidal Ideation and Depressive Symptoms Between Medical and Pharmacy Students. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL EDUCATION 2023; 87:ajpe8881. [PMID: 35470169 PMCID: PMC10159499 DOI: 10.5688/ajpe8881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Objective. The purpose of the study was to compare suicidal ideation among medical and pharmacy students and characterize related symptoms.Methods. The authors conducted a cross-sectional, retrospective study to compare suicidal ideation among medical and pharmacy students at a single public university during 2009 to 2020. Respondents' voluntary and anonymous responses to the Interactive Screening Program (ISP) Stress and Depression Questionnaire are reported.Results. The authors analyzed responses from 619 medical and 214 pharmacy students collected over 11 academic years. There was no significant difference between medical and pharmacy students who endorsed suicidal ideation (13.5% vs 17.3%, respectively). The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) scores were significantly different between medical and pharmacy students, with more pharmacy students reporting moderate to severe depression (24.3% for medical vs 35.1% for pharmacy). Compared to medical students, more pharmacy students also endorsed anhedonia, a reduced capacity for pleasure (13.4% vs 24.3%, respectively), sleep problems (29.6% vs 42.6%, respectively), and fatigue (46% vs 64.4%, respectively). Pharmacy students also reported more intense affective states such as "feeling your life is too stressful" and "feeling intensely anxious or having anxiety attacks." Relationships and physical/mental health/substance abuse were common themes that emerged from the qualitative data.Conclusion. While there was no significant difference in suicidal ideation between pharmacy and medical students, the prevalence is alarming compared to the general population. More pharmacy students endorsed symptoms of depression and intense affective states that could impair functioning. Future studies may focus on mitigation strategies for suicidal ideation among health professions students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly C Lee
- University of California San Diego, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, La Jolla, California
| | - Robin Huang
- VA Loma Linda Healthcare System, Loma Linda, California
| | - Ilanit R Tal
- University of California San Diego, School of Medicine, La Jolla, California
| | - Nancy Downs
- University of California San Diego, School of Medicine, La Jolla, California
| | - Sidney Zisook
- University of California San Diego, School of Medicine, La Jolla, California
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15
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Elnaem MH, Barakat M, Mubarak N, K T MS, Abdelaziz DH, Fathelrahman AI, Thabit AK, Ramatillah DL, Al-Jumaili AA, Syed NK, Adam MF, Hossain MS, Baraka MA, Jose J, Elkalmi R, Chandran S, Elrggal ME, Mansour NO. Evaluation of grit and its associated factors among undergraduate pharmacy students from 14 Asian and Middle Eastern countries amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Saudi Pharm J 2023; 31:410-416. [PMID: 36744104 PMCID: PMC9890879 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsps.2023.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 01/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Grit is proposed as an essential trait for academic achievement. Thus, evaluating its current status and the associated factors could aid academic support planning. Objective The present study aimed to assess grit level and its related factors among undergraduate pharmacy students from 14 countries amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods A cross-sectional survey-based study was conducted among pharmacy students from 14 countries in Asia and the Middle East. A 31-item questionnaire was developed, validated, and pilot-tested, including the validated short scale for grit assessment. The data was collected between 1 February and 15 April 2022. Descriptive and inferential statistics were employed as appropriate. Results A total of 2665 responses were received, mainly from females (68.7 %), living in urban areas (69.2 %) and studying at private universities (59.1 %). The average grit score on a scale of 5 was 3.15 ± 0.54. The responses revealed higher favourable responses to items on the perseverance of efforts (34.9 % to 54 %) compared to items on the consistency of interests (26.5 % to 31.1 %). Students who did not exercise (AOR: 0.47, 95 %CI: 0.33-0.67) or exercised irregularly (AOR: 0.64, 95 %CI: 0.45-0.90) were less likely to have higher grit scores than those who exercised regularly. Additionally, students who did not receive COVID-19 vaccination (AOR: 0.50, 95 %CI: 0.36-0.71) or received only one dose (AOR: 0.67, 95 %CI: 0.46-0.99) were less likely to have higher grit scores than those who received their booster vaccination. Interestingly, students who chose the pharmacy program as their only available or reasonable choice (AOR: 0.33, 95 %CI: 0.17-0.62) and students from public universities (AOR: 0.82, 95 %CI: 0.68-0.98) were less likely to have higher grit scores. On the other hand, students who did not face educational challenges with online learning (AOR: 1.19, 95 %CI: 1.003-1.416) and students with excellent (AOR: 2.28, 95 %CI: 1.57-3.31) and very good (AOR: 2.16, 95 %CI: 1.53-3.04) academic performance were more likely to have higher grit scores. Conclusion The findings revealed moderate grit levels. Higher grit levels were thought to be associated with several personal, lifestyle and academic factors. Further interventions to support students' grit attributes are required, particularly concerning the consistency of interests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Hassan Elnaem
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 Minden, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Muna Barakat
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Naeem Mubarak
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Lahore Medical & Dental College, University of Health Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Mohammed Salim K T
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Karnataka, India
| | - Doaa H Abdelaziz
- Pharmacy Practice & Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Future University in Egypt, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - Abrar K Thabit
- Pharmacy Practice Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | | | | | - Nabeel Kashan Syed
- Pharmacy Practice Research Unit, Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Md Sanower Hossain
- Centre for Sustainability of Ecosystem and Earth Resources (Pusat ALAM) Universiti Malaysia Pahang Kuantan 26300 Pahang Darul Makmur MALAYSIA
| | - Mohamed A Baraka
- Clinical Pharmacy Program. College of Pharmacy, Al Ain University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, College of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Jimmy Jose
- School of Pharmacy, University of Nizwa, Nizwa, Oman
| | | | - Sarath Chandran
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences. Government Medical College Kannur, Pariyaram, 670503 Kerala, India
| | | | - Noha O Mansour
- Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
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16
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Senhaji-Tomza B, Unni E, Ng KE, Lonie JM. Pharmacy student perceptions of remote learning and wellness during the pandemic: Lessons learned from a metropolitan commuter city. CURRENTS IN PHARMACY TEACHING & LEARNING 2023; 15:130-138. [PMID: 36948980 PMCID: PMC10028452 DOI: 10.1016/j.cptl.2023.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The purpose of this study was to assess pharmacy student perceptions of remote learning experiences and personal well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic in a metropolitan commuter city. METHODS A survey was developed and sent to pharmacy students from the three pharmacy colleges in New York City in January 2021. The survey domains consisted of demographics, personal well-being, classroom experiences, and pandemic and post-pandemic preferred learning modalities and reasons. RESULTS From a total of 1354 students from professional years one, two, and three across the three colleges, completed responses were received from 268 students (20% response rate). More than half of the respondents (55.6%) reported a negative impact of the pandemic on their well-being. More than half of the respondents (58.6%) reported more time to study. When students were asked their preferred mode of pharmacy education delivery during the pandemic and post-pandemic, a quarter (24.5%) preferred remote learning for all courses during the pandemic, and only a quarter (26.8%) preferred traditional classrooms for all courses post-pandemic. Approximately 60% of the respondents preferred some type of remote learning post-pandemic. CONCLUSIONS Pharmacy student learning has been and continues to be impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, especially for pharmacy students in New York City. This study sheds light on the remote learning experiences and preferences of pharmacy students in a commuter city. Future studies could assess pharmacy student learning experiences and preferences after return to campus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Batoul Senhaji-Tomza
- Social and Behavioral Sciences, Touro College of Pharmacy, 230 W. 125th St, New York, NY 10027, United States.
| | - Elizabeth Unni
- Social, Behavioral, and Administration Sciences, Touro College of Pharmacy, 230 West 125th Street, Room 505, New York, NY 10027, United States.
| | - Kimberly E Ng
- St. John's University, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. Albert's Hall Room 114, 8000 Utopia Parkway, Queens, NY 11439, United States.
| | - John M Lonie
- Long Island University, College of Pharmacy, 75 Dekalb Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11201, United States.
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17
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Nguyen MD, Stocks AM, Anksorus HN, Harris SC. Assessing the mental health, physical health, and well-being of doctor of pharmacy students. CURRENTS IN PHARMACY TEACHING & LEARNING 2023; 15:170-177. [PMID: 36922330 DOI: 10.1016/j.cptl.2023.02.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2021] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Student well-being is a growing area of interest, though existing literature assessing multiple areas of well-being is lacking. This study aimed to evaluate the well-being of pharmacy students corresponding to three well-being domains (physical health, mental health, personal well-being and burnout) and identify characteristics associated with these domains. METHODS An online survey adapted from various instruments was disseminated to pharmacy students from 11 pharmacy programs. Survey responses were compared using basic descriptive statistics, and Pearson's chi-Square was used for association analyses. RESULTS Eight hundred thirty-six students from responded to the survey (24.3% response rate). For physical health, 59.3% of students reported sleeping <7 hours per night and 60.4% reported exercising 1 to 5 hours per week. For mental health, 24.8% of students screened positive for depression and 42% screened positive for anxiety. Lastly, 65.9% of students were at risk for decreased well-being and 63.7% for burnout. Based on association analyses, gender and pharmacy year were associated with screening positive for anxiety and burnout, gender was associated with decreased well-being, and relationship status was associated with screening positive for depression. CONCLUSIONS This study revealed pharmacy students are at risk for lack of sleep and exercise, depression or anxiety, decreased well-being, and burnout. Also, several characteristics were found to be associated with these negative well-being outcomes. Although response rate and participant demographics could impact the generalizability of these findings, findings further increase awareness about student well-being and inform pharmacy programs supporting well-being by better understanding student risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mimi D Nguyen
- PGY1 Pharmacy Resident, Inova Mount Vernon Hospital, 2501 Parkers Ln, Alexandria, VA 22306, United States.
| | - Abby MacCauley Stocks
- University of Kentucky Good Samaritan Hospital, 310 S Limestone, Lexington, KY 40508, United States.
| | - Heidi N Anksorus
- University of North Carolina Eshelman School of Pharmacy, 301 Pharmacy Lane, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States.
| | - Suzanne C Harris
- University of North Carolina Eshelman School of Pharmacy, 301 Pharmacy Lane, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States.
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18
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El-Desoky R, De La Cruz A, Thornton JD, Wanat MA, Varkey D. Identifying predictors of generalized anxiety among student pharmacists in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. CURRENTS IN PHARMACY TEACHING & LEARNING 2023; 15:34-42. [PMID: 36898886 PMCID: PMC9970934 DOI: 10.1016/j.cptl.2023.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To explore the prevalence of generalized anxiety (GA) among doctor of pharmacy (PharmD) students at an academic institution during the COVID-19 pandemic and use Alderfer's existence, relatedness, and growth (ERG) theory to elucidate which unsatisfied needs are predictive of higher levels of GA symptoms. METHODS This was a cross-sectional, single-site survey administered to first- through fourth-year PharmD students from October 2020 to January 2021. The survey tool included demographic information, the validated Counseling Center Assessment of Psychological Symptoms-62 tool, and nine additional questions developed to assess Alderfer's ERG theory of needs. Predictors of GA symptoms were evaluated using descriptive statistics, multiple linear regression, correlation analysis, and multivariable analysis. RESULTS A total of 214 of 513 students completed the survey (42%) . Among students, 49.01% had no-clinical, 31.31% had low-clinical, and 19.63% had high-clinical GA symptoms. The relatedness needs, which included feeling disliked, socially disconnected, and misunderstood had the strongest correlation (65%) to GA symptoms and was most associated with GA symptoms (β = 0.56, P < .001). Students who did not exercise experienced more symptoms of GA (P = .008). CONCLUSIONS Over 50% of PharmD students met clinical cut-offs for GA symptoms and the relatedness need was most predictive of GA symptoms among students. Future student-centered interventions should aim to create opportunities that increase social connections, build resilience, and provide psychosocial support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rania El-Desoky
- University of Houston College of Pharmacy, Health 2, 4349 Martin Luther King Blvd Room 4349, Houston, TX 77204, United States.
| | - Austin De La Cruz
- University of Houston College of Pharmacy, Health 2, 4349 Martin Luther King Blvd Room 4349, Houston, TX 77204, United States.
| | - J Douglas Thornton
- University of Houston College of Pharmacy, Health 2, 4349 Martin Luther King Blvd Room 4055, Houston, TX 77204, United States.
| | - Matthew A Wanat
- Prescription Drug Misuse Education & Research (PREMIER) Center University of Houston College of Pharmacy, Health 2, 4349 Martin Luther King Blvd Room 4029, Houston, TX 77204, United States.
| | - Divya Varkey
- Pharmacy Leadership and Administration, University of Houston College of Pharmacy, Health 2, 4349 Martin Luther King Blvd Room 4027, Houston, TX 77204, United States.
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University students' use of mental health services: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Int J Ment Health Syst 2022; 16:57. [PMID: 36527036 PMCID: PMC9758037 DOI: 10.1186/s13033-022-00569-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND International estimates suggest around a third of students arrives at university with symptoms indicative of a common mental disorder, many in late adolescence at a developmentally high-risk period for the emergence of mental disorder. Universities, as settings, represent an opportunity to contribute to the improvement of population mental health. We sought to understand what is known about the management of student mental health, and asked: (1) What proportion of students use mental health services when experiencing psychological distress? (2) Does use by students differ across health service types? METHODS A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines using a Context, Condition, Population framework (CoCoPop) with a protocol preregistered on Prospero (CRD42021238273). Electronic database searches in Medline, Embase, PsycINFO, ERIC and CINAHL Plus, key authors were contacted, citation searches were conducted, and the reference list of the WHO World Mental Health International College Student Initiative (WMH-ICS) was searched. Data extraction was performed using a pre-defined framework, and quality appraisal using the Joanna Briggs Institute tool. Data were synthesised narratively and meta-analyses at both the study and estimate level. RESULTS 7789 records were identified through the search strategies, with a total of 44 studies meeting inclusion criteria. The majority of included studies from the USA (n = 36), with remaining studies from Bangladesh, Brazil, Canada, China, Ethiopia and Italy. Overall, studies contained 123 estimates of mental health service use associated with a heterogeneous range of services, taking highly variable numbers of students across a variety of settings. DISCUSSION This is the first systematic quantitative survey of student mental health service use. The empirical literature to date is very limited in terms of a small number of international studies outside of the USA; studies of how services link together, and of student access. The significant variation we found in the proportions of students using services within and between studies across different settings and populations suggests the current services described in the literature are not meeting the needs of all students.
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Childs-Kean LM. Does the Academy Have Trust Issues? AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL EDUCATION 2022; 86:ajpe8985. [PMID: 35169001 PMCID: PMC10159403 DOI: 10.5688/ajpe8985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
The increasing levels of workplace stress caused by the COVID-19 pandemic has caused some members of the Academy to leave their jobs, in part due to levels of distrust between employees and their supervisors. In order to rebuild trust in the Academy, we must first know what the elements of trust are: boundaries, reliability, accountability, vault, integrity, nonjudgement, and generosity. Focusing on generosity, believing that everyone is doing the best that they can, is a first step toward rebuilding trust with students, staff members, faculty members, and members of administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey M Childs-Kean
- University of Florida, College of Pharmacy, Gainesville, Florida
- Editorial Board Member, American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education, Arlington, Virginia
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21
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Mnatzaganian CL, Lee KC, Singh RF, Yam FK, Morello CM, Lorentz S, Shapiro D. Implementation and impact of a fourth-year student pharmacist wellness series pilot on perceived stress and support. CURRENTS IN PHARMACY TEACHING & LEARNING 2022; 14:1549-1554. [PMID: 36402696 DOI: 10.1016/j.cptl.2022.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE A wellness program was piloted for student pharmacists in their advanced pharmacy practice experience (APPE) year. The purpose is to describe the program implementation and its impact on APPE students' perceived stress and perception of support by school personnel. EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITY AND SETTING A three-session virtual wellness program was designed for APPE students. Attendance was optional for the pilot year. An online survey assessing demographics, perceived stress (measured by the validated Perceived Stress Scale [PSS]), factors contributing to stress, and perceived support before the first session and after the third session was sent to all APPE students. FINDINGS Twenty (37%), 13 (24%), and 10 (18.5%) students attended the first, second, and third session, respectively. A total of 49 students completed the post-program survey. Of these, ten (20.4%) attended one session, ten (20.4%) attended two sessions, and two (4.1%) attended three sessions. Students reported moderate stress. Female students endorsed higher PSS scores and career-related stress. PSS scores were lower among students who attended at least one session vs. those who did not attend any sessions and were negatively correlated with total sessions attended. Attendees were likelier to feel supported by staff and preceptors and perceived that concerns were heard by administration and preceptors. SUMMARY An APPE wellness program was successfully developed. Students who attended at least one session reported less stress and greater support from school personnel vs. those who did not attend any sessions. These findings are promising as wellness efforts are integrated into pharmacy training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina L Mnatzaganian
- University of California San Diego Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 9500 Gilman Dr MC#0657, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States.
| | - Kelly C Lee
- University of California San Diego Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 9500 Gilman Dr MC#0657, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States.
| | - Renu F Singh
- University of California San Diego Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 9500 Gilman Dr MC#0657, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States.
| | - Felix K Yam
- University of California San Diego Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 9500 Gilman Dr MC#0657, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States.
| | - Candis M Morello
- University of California San Diego Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 9500 Gilman Dr MC#0657, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States.
| | - Sarah Lorentz
- University of California San Diego Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 9500 Gilman Dr MC#0657, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States.
| | - Desiree Shapiro
- University of California San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, United States.
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22
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Elnaem MH, Mubarak N, K. T. MS, Barakat M, Abdelaziz DH, Mansour NO, Thabit AK, Ramatillah DL, Al-Jumaili AA, Syed NK, Adam MF, Hossain MS, Baraka MA, Jose J, Elkalmi R, Chandran S, Singh Dehele I, Elrggal M, Fathelrahman AI. Assessment of mental wellbeing of undergraduate pharmacy students from 14 countries: The role of gender, lifestyle, health-related, and academic-related factors. Front Public Health 2022; 10:1011376. [PMID: 36388263 PMCID: PMC9665407 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1011376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Pharmacy students will assume future roles as frontline healthcare providers. Therefore, evaluating their current state of mental wellbeing and its associated factors is essential for better planning students' support initiatives. This study aimed to assess mental wellbeing and its associated factors among undergraduate pharmacy students from 14 countries during the pandemic. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among undergraduate pharmacy students in 14 countries in Asia and the Middle East. The validated Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale (the 14-item WEMWBS) was adopted to assess mental wellbeing. Data collection was performed online between February and April 2022. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used as appropriate. Results A total of 2,665 responses were received, mainly from females (68.7%) with a higher presence of private universities (59.1%). About 34.9% had low mental wellbeing levels, while 57 and 8.1% had medium, and high levels, respectively. Binary logistic regression showed that males (AOR: 1.34; CI 95%: 1.11-1.61; p < 0.01) and students with no chronic illnesses (AOR: 2.01; CI 95%: 1.45-2.80; p < 0.001) were more likely to have higher mental wellbeing. Also, participants who did not engage in any exercise (AOR: 0.71; CI 95%: 0.52-0.98; p = 0.04) and those in public universities (AOR: 0.82; CI 95%: 0.69-0.97; p = 0.02) were less likely to have higher mental wellbeing. Additionally, students who had interest/passion for pharmacy (AOR: 1.69; CI 95%: 1.07-2.68; p = 0.02), and those who known pharmacists inspired (AOR: 1.81; CI 95%: 1.06-3.12; p = 0.03), were more likely to have higher mental wellbeing compared with those who had no specific reason for their choice to study pharmacy. The participants with excellent (AOR: 1.87; CI 95%: 1.29-2.70; p = 0.001) or very good self-reported academic performance (AOR: 1.57; CI 95%: 1.12-2.22; p = 0.01) were more likely to have higher mental wellbeing compared to those with fair academic performance. Conclusion More than a third of the participants had low mental wellbeing. Various demographic, lifestyle, medical and academic factors appeared to affect students' mental wellbeing. Careful consideration of these factors and their integration into the pharmacy schools' plans for student support services and academic advising would be essential to improve students' mental wellbeing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Hassan Elnaem
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, International Islamic University Malaysia, Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia,*Correspondence: Mohamed Hassan Elnaem ;
| | - Naeem Mubarak
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Lahore Medical and Dental College, University of Health Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Mohammed Salim K. T.
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Muna Barakat
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Doaa H. Abdelaziz
- Pharmacy Practice and Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Future University in Egypt, Cairo, Egypt,Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The National Hepatology and Tropical Medicine Research Institute, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Noha O. Mansour
- Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Abrar K. Thabit
- Pharmacy Practice Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | | | | | - Nabeel Kashan Syed
- Pharmacy Practice Research Unit, Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Md. Sanower Hossain
- Centre for Sustainability of Ecosystem and Earth Resources (Pusat ALAM), Universiti Malaysia Pahang, Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia
| | - Mohamed A. Baraka
- Clinical Pharmacy Program, College of Pharmacy, Al Ain University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates,Clinical Pharmacy Department, College of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Jimmy Jose
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Nizwa, Nizwa, Oman
| | - Ramadan Elkalmi
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Sebha University, Sebha, Libya
| | - Sarath Chandran
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Government Medical College Kannur, Kannur, Kerala, India
| | | | - Mahmoud Elrggal
- College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
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Factors affecting the utilization of mental health services among undergraduate students in a Nigerian University. Heliyon 2022; 8:e11476. [PMID: 36406704 PMCID: PMC9667261 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e11476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2022] [Revised: 09/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Under-utilization of mental health services among university students is a major public health concern. This study assessed the factors affecting the utilization of mental health services among undergraduate students. This research was a cross-sectional survey carried out among students of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria. A semi-structured self-administered questionnaire was used for data collection and multi-stage sampling technique was used in sampling the participants. Utilization, attitude, and health seeking behavior were categorized into good (≥50% score), and poor (<50% score), while social support was categorized into poor (8–18), moderate (19–25), and strong (26–32). Chi-square test and Logistic regression were used to assess the relationship between the categorical variables. 450 students enrolled in this study of which 52.4% were females and mean age of 19.40 ± 1.65 years. Most students showed a good attitude (87.5%), health seeking behavior (67.8%), and poor social support (69.4%) towards mental health services. There was an association between source of information (p = 0.005), health seeking behavior (p = 0.001) and utilization of mental health services. There was also a higher likelihood for students of female gender (OR: 1.621 (1.072–2.452)) and being aged above 20 years (OR: 1.331 (0.822–2.153)) to have good utilization of mental health services. Majority of the students showed good attitude and health seeking behavior towards mental health services but there was poor utilization as well as poor to moderate social support towards mental health services. Gender, age, attitude, source of information as well as health seeking behavior are important factors that can affect the utilization of mental health services among undergraduate students. Interventions targeted towards these factors should be done to ultimately improve utilization of mental health services among undergraduate students.
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Müller C, El-Ansari K, El Ansari W. Cross-Sectional Analysis of Mental Health among University Students: Do Sex and Academic Level Matter? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:12670. [PMID: 36231970 PMCID: PMC9564483 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191912670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
University students' mental health and well-being is a growing public health concern. There is a lack of studies assessing a broad range of mental health domains by sex and academic level of study. This cross-sectional online survey of BSc, MSc, and PhD students (n = 3353, 67% female) enrolled at one university in Germany assessed a wide scope of mental health domains, covering positive (i.e., self-rated health, self-esteem, student engagement) and negative aspects (i.e., perceived stress, irritation, and screening positive for depression, anxiety, comorbidity, and psychological distress). We evaluated differences in mental health by sex and academic level. Overall, although self-rated health did not differ by sex and academic level, females and lower academic level were associated with less favorable mental health. Males reported higher prevalence of high self-esteem, and higher engagement (all p ≤ 0.04). Conversely, mean perceived stress and cognitive/emotional irritation were higher among females, as were rates for positive screenings for anxiety, anxiety and depression comorbidity, and psychological distress (p < 0.001 for all). Likewise, lower academic level (BSc) was associated with lower rates of high self-esteem (p ≤ 0.001), increased perceived stress (p < 0.001), and higher prevalence of positive screening for depression, anxiety, comorbidity, and psychological distress (p ≤ 0.002 for all), while higher academic level (PhD) was linked to increased student engagement (p < 0.001 for all). Although the effect sizes of sex and academic level on student mental health were modest, these findings support a need for action to establish and expand early detection and prevention programs, on-campus advisory services, and peer counseling that focus on the sex-specific and academic-study-level-specific factors, as well as mental health and career development resources for students. Academics and policy makers need to consider multipronged intervention strategies to boost confidence of students and their academic career.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carsten Müller
- Department of Applied Health Sciences, Hochschule für Gesundheit, 44801 Bochum, Germany
- University Sports, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | | | - Walid El Ansari
- Department of Surgery, Hamad General Hospital, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar
- College of Medicine, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar
- Weill Cornell Medicine—Qatar, Doha 24144, Qatar
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Linn BS, Tran E, Willson M, Hanks D. Implementing interventions to promote well-being in experiential education. Am J Health Syst Pharm 2022; 79:2094-2098. [PMID: 36083098 DOI: 10.1093/ajhp/zxac250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In an effort to expedite the publication of articles, AJHP is posting manuscripts online as soon as possible after acceptance. Accepted manuscripts have been peer-reviewed and copyedited, but are posted online before technical formatting and author proofing. These manuscripts are not the final version of record and will be replaced with the final article (formatted per AJHP style and proofed by the authors) at a later time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Becky S Linn
- School of Pharmacy, University of Wyoming College of Health Sciences, Laramie, WY, USA.,Fort Collins Family Medicine ResidencyUCHealth, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Emmeline Tran
- Medical University of South Carolina College of Pharmacy, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Megan Willson
- Washington State University College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Spokane, WA, USA
| | - Danna Hanks
- School of Pharmacy, University of Wyoming College of Health Sciences, Laramie, WY, USA
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Pharmacy Students' Mental Health and Resilience in COVID-19: An Assessment after One Year of Online Education. Eur J Investig Health Psychol Educ 2022; 12:1082-1107. [PMID: 36005226 PMCID: PMC9407568 DOI: 10.3390/ejihpe12080077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 has impacted mental health and affected education due to the shift to remote learning. The purpose of the current study was to assess the mental health of pharmacy students one year following the onset of the pandemic. A descriptive cross-sectional questionnaire was distributed to pharmacy students. The severity of depression, anxiety, and stress was assessed by the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21), and resilience was assessed by the Brief Resilience Scale (BRS). COVID-19-related economic, educational, and health stressors, and students’ vaccine attitudes were surveyed. Descriptive, bivariate, and multivariable analysis were used, and a p-value of <0.05 was considered significant. A total of 561 students participated; 37% had mild-to-moderate depression, 37% had severe-to-extremely-severe anxiety, and 52% demonstrated normal stress levels. Severe depression, anxiety, and stress were associated with smoking and feeling isolated due to COVID-19. Around 40% of students had low resilience, associated with smoking, being in the third or fourth year of pharmacy study, and the consumption of caffeinated beverages. The mean score of satisfaction with online learning was 60.3 ± 21.3%. Only 5% of participants were vaccinated, of which 87% trusted the benefits of vaccines and their role in controlling the pandemic. One year after the onset of COVID-19, depression, anxiety, stress, and low resilience were observed among pharmacy students; the investigation of the long-term mental effects of the pandemic on university students is warranted.
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Van Hooser J, Swanson S, Conway JM, Brown JT. Assessing pharmacy students' baseline tolerance for ambiguity, burnout, empathy, quality of life, and stress. CURRENTS IN PHARMACY TEACHING & LEARNING 2022; 14:966-971. [PMID: 36055705 DOI: 10.1016/j.cptl.2022.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Several factors may affect student wellbeing, including tolerance for ambiguity, burnout, empathy, quality of life, and stress. A better understanding of how pharmacy students score on these scales relative to other health professional students could help educators and schools address and improve student wellbeing. The study objective was to determine a baseline measure of pharmacy student tolerance for ambiguity, burnout, empathy, quality of life, and stress. METHODS A voluntary survey including several assessment scales (Tolerance for Ambiguity, Oldenburg Burnout Inventory, Interpersonal Reactivity Index [empathy], Quality of Life Scale, and Perceived Stress Scale) was sent by email to all pharmacy students within a standalone college of pharmacy. RESULTS Two hundred thirty-one pharmacy students completed all aspects of the survey. Comparing each scale with sex, female students trended higher in Interpersonal Reactivity Index and scored significantly higher on the Oldenburg Burnout Inventory (disengagement), while male students scored significantly higher for Quality of Life. Fourth-year students scored significantly higher on the Tolerance for Ambiguity scale as compared to first- and second-year students and on the Quality of Life scale as compared with third-year students. Third-year students experienced the greatest levels of burnout. Differences were also noted based on students' anticipated area of practice (empathy) and desire to work with an underserved population (empathy and stress). CONCLUSIONS Pharmacy students' responses to the included scales varied greatly when considering various demographic parameters. The significant differences identified are illuminating and represent potential areas for curricular improvement, student support, and further study within pharmacy school curricula.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jared Van Hooser
- Pharmaceutical Care Learning Center - Duluth, University of Minnesota College of Pharmacy, 1110 Kirby Drive, Duluth, MN 55812, United States.
| | - Stephanie Swanson
- University of Minnesota College of Pharmacy, 308 Harvard St SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, United States.
| | - Jeannine M Conway
- Associate Dean for Professional Education and Associate Professor, 308 Harvard St. SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, United States.
| | - Jacob T Brown
- University of Minnesota College of Pharmacy, 1110 Kirby Drive, Duluth, MN 55812, United States.
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Munger MA, Tak C, Henchey C, Dey S, Feehan M. Longitudinal analysis of PharmD program students' satisfaction and stress. CURRENTS IN PHARMACY TEACHING & LEARNING 2022; 14:959-965. [PMID: 36055704 DOI: 10.1016/j.cptl.2022.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The University of Utah College of Pharmacy conducted an annual survey to gauge the relationship between multiple dimensions of students' satisfaction, and stress, with the doctor of pharmacy (PharmD) program and perceptions of future career plans. METHODS An online survey of professional year one (P1) through professional year four (P4) students was conducted from 2015 to 2019. RESULTS There were a total of 953 non-unique survey respondents. The overall response rate was 86.8%. The study population was 51% female and 49% male with a mean age of 26.7 ± 3.3 years. Students were moderately to very satisfied with the curriculum across the four years of the program. Students were highly to moderately likely to recommend the program. Likelihood to recommend the pharmacy career was similar for the P1 and second professional year 2 (P2) but declined over the four years. Students were moderately to neutrally affected by stress, highest in the P2 and third professional year. Financial issues were rated as the highest stress across the four years. Gender was not statistically associated with satisfaction, although women had higher stress impacting their health than men. Likelihood to recommend the PharmD program and pharmacy career was rated higher by younger students. CONCLUSIONS Student satisfaction with the PharmD program should be a priority since higher education is a service industry. Academic pharmacy should consider whether pedagogical and social mechanisms are in place to ensure that their programs are helping students manage stress and promote satisfaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark A Munger
- University of Utah, 30 South, 2000 East, Rm #4958, Salt Lake City, UT 84112-5820, United States.
| | - Casey Tak
- University of Utah, 30 South, 2000 East, Rm #4958, Salt Lake City, UT 84112-5820, United States; Department of Pharmacotherapy, University of Utah, 30 South, 2000 East, Rm #4956, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112-5820, United States.
| | - Craig Henchey
- College of Pharmacy, University of Utah, 30 South, 2000 East, Rm #112, Salt Lake City, UT 84112-5820, United States.
| | - Surajit Dey
- Roseman University for Health Sciences, 11 Sunset Way, Henderson, NV, 89014, United States.
| | - Michael Feehan
- Health Division, 3 World Trade Center, 34th Floor, 175 Greenwich Street, New York, NY 10007-2438, United States; Cerner Enviza, North Kansas City, MO, United States; Department of Ophthalmology, Ross Eye Institute, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, United States.
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Almaghaslah D, Alsayari A. Academic Help-Seeking Behaviours of Undergraduate Pharmacy Students in Saudi Arabia: Usage and Helpfulness of Resources. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10071264. [PMID: 35885791 PMCID: PMC9319299 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10071264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: University students usually find it difficult to handle academic challenges by themselves and tend to seek help. Academic help seeking is defined as “a behavioral strategy that involves controlling one’s behavior and interacting socially to obtain help from other people.” Methods: A cross-sectional design was planned. An online self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data on academic help-seeking behaviours among year 5 undergraduate pharmacy students. Demographic and background information was described in terms of frequency. Their reasons for seeking academic help (five items) and factors considered for choosing academic resources (six items) used a Likert scale ranging from one (strongly disagree) to five (strongly agree). Usefulness (ten items) was rated on a five-point scale ranging from ‘very useful’ to ‘not useful at all.’ Frequency (ten items) was rated on a five-point scale ranging from ‘never’ to ‘every day.’ Results: A total of 116 pharmacy students completed the survey. The study indicated that the key reasons for seeking help were positive factors—a further improvement of one’s learning and the desire to complete a course. The resources that were most frequently used were peers, the course online portal, and online educational resources. The resources that students found most helpful were peers, the course instructor, textbooks, and online resources. Discussion and conclusion: The frequency of using a certain support resource was not mirrored by its helpfulness. Resources, including professors, teaching assistants, and textbooks, were found helpful but not frequently consulted for help. On the other hand, summaries and notes, for example, were frequently used but not particularly helpful. However, peers currently taking the course and the course management system were found to be very useful and frequently used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dalia Almaghaslah
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha 61441, Saudi Arabia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +966-56-3885-832
| | - Abdulrhman Alsayari
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha 61441, Saudi Arabia;
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Harris KJ, Woodruff AL, Wash A, Catanzano S, Samuel JT. Student perspectives on caring and connectedness in the PharmD classroom. CURRENTS IN PHARMACY TEACHING & LEARNING 2022; 14:817-829. [PMID: 35914841 DOI: 10.1016/j.cptl.2022.06.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Mental health concerns are increasing exponentially within the college student population. Successfully coping with the stress of adjusting to college can be difficult particularly for students majoring in science- and health-related disciplines like pharmacy. This study aimed to understand how well-being is integrated and could be improved upon within the learning environment from the students' perspective. METHODS Several college of pharmacy faculty collaborated with campus wellness staff through an initiative that aimed to integrate mental health and well-being strategies into the learning environment. At the end of each semester, pharmacy students responded to open-ended questions meant to evaluate their perspectives of the professor participating in the well-being program. Grounded theory was used to code the responses. RESULTS Four themes emerged from the student responses: (1) Instruct in a creative, consistent, and clear manner; (2) Be genuine; (3) Establish a welcoming environment; and (4) Invest in students. Pharmacy students experienced their classrooms as more than just a place to learn class material but as an environment that valued the students as people. CONCLUSIONS The study highlights the role of faculty as educators of classroom material and of including practices that facilitate a sense of connectedness and caring within the classroom.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keoshia J Harris
- Counseling Psychology Doctoral Program, Well-being in Learning Environments, The University of Texas at Austin Counseling and Mental Health Center, 100 W Dean Keeton St, Austin, TX 78712, United States.
| | - Althea L Woodruff
- Well-being in Learning Environments, The University of Texas at Austin Counseling and Mental Health Center, 100 W Dean Keeton St, Austin, TX 78712, United States.
| | - Andrew Wash
- Health Outcomes Division, The University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy, 2409 University Avenue Stop A1930, Austin, TX 78712, United States.
| | - Samantha Catanzano
- Division of Pharmacy Practice, The University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy, 2409 University Avenue Stop A1910, Austin, TX 78712, United States.
| | - Justin T Samuel
- The University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy, 2409 University Avenue Stop A1900, Austin, TX 78712, United States.
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Al Saigh R, Herzallah R, Alhusban A. Problematic Use of Social Media Platforms and Its Association With Depression in Pharmacy Students. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL EDUCATION 2022; 86:8625. [PMID: 34385171 PMCID: PMC10159479 DOI: 10.5688/ajpe8625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Objectives. The objective of this investigation is to examine the association between depression and problematic use of social media among university students with a focus on the differential effect of studying pharmacy as compared to other disciplines.Methods. A cross sectional study was conducted using an online survey that recruited students from different disciplines at one university. Problematic use of social media was measured using the Bergen Social Media Addiction Scale. Depression was assessed using the patient health questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9).Results. Responses from 105 respondents out of 140 invited were analyzed. The average age of participants was 19.9 years (SD=2.1 years). Forty-seven participants (44.8%) reported depression. Depression was less prevalent in pharmacy students than in students of other disciplines (35.7% vs 62.9%, respectively). Social media addiction score (OR: 1.07; 95% CI: 1.01-1.12) and pharmacy discipline (OR: 0.2; 95%: 0.02-0.66) were identified as independent predictors of depression. The extent of problematic use of social media was similar between pharmacy and non-pharmacy students (49.8 and 52.7, respectively).Conclusion Studying pharmacy may have a differential effect on the association between problematic use of social media and the development of depression among undergraduate university students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rend Al Saigh
- Mediclinic Middle East, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Ahmed Alhusban
- Jordan University of Science and Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Irbid, Jordan
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Lai HJ, Lien YJ, Chen KR, Lin YK. The Effectiveness of Mental Health Literacy Curriculum among Undergraduate Public Health Students. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19095269. [PMID: 35564671 PMCID: PMC9104026 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19095269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Mental health literacy (MHL) plays an important role in public health. Improving MHL can promote mental health at the individual and public levels. To date, no published studies have assessed the effectiveness of MHL curriculum interventions among undergraduate public health students. The participants in this study were undergraduate public health students (n = 48) who were enrolled in an 18-week MHL curriculum for 100 min per week. MHL was assessed using the Mental Health Literacy Scale for Healthcare Students. A paired sample t-test was performed to examine the immediate and delayed effects of the MHL curriculum. The total MHL score significantly improved, and a moderate effect size was found directly after the intervention and six weeks later. There were significant differences in the recognition of mental illness (p < 0.01), help-seeking efficacy (p < 0.05), and help-seeking attitude (p < 0.05) in the five components of MHL between pre- and post-test. Furthermore, significant improvements were obtained for the maintenance of positive mental health (p < 0.05) and reduction of mental illness stigma (p < 0.001) between the pre-test and follow-up. Our findings provide evidence for the development and implementation of an MHL curriculum for public health education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsuan-Jung Lai
- Department of Health Promotion and Health Education, National Taiwan Normal University, 162, Heping East Road Section 1, Taipei 106, Taiwan;
| | - Yin-Ju Lien
- Department of Health Promotion and Health Education, National Taiwan Normal University, 162, Heping East Road Section 1, Taipei 106, Taiwan;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-2-7749-1736; Fax: +886-2-2363-0326
| | - Kai-Ren Chen
- Department of Public Health, Fu Jen Catholic University, 510, Zhongzheng Road, New Taipei 242, Taiwan;
| | - Yu-Kai Lin
- Department of Health and Welfare, University of Taipei, 101, Zhongcheng Road Section 2, Taipei 111, Taiwan;
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Dudo K, Ehring E, Fuchs S, Herget S, Watzke S, Unverzagt S, Frese T. The association of sleep patterns and depressive symptoms in medical students: a cross-sectional study. BMC Res Notes 2022; 15:109. [PMID: 35317836 PMCID: PMC8939186 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-022-05975-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Mental health is a fundamental aspect in ensuring the stable and successful professional life of future physicians. Depressive symptoms can negatively affect the work-life-balance and efficiency at work of medical students. To date, there have been very few studies involving medical students that examine the association between single sleep characteristics and the outcome of the Beck Depression Inventory-II score. Therefore, the aim of the present study is to investigate this possible association. A classroom survey using socio-demographic characteristics, the Beck Depression Inventory-II, and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index was conducted amongst students at a German medical school from December 2017 to September 2018. Data analysis was performed with descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression. Results Of the students surveyed, 19% showed depressive symptoms with a Beck Depression Inventory-II score over 13 and 42% of these cases were moderate or severe. The occurrence of relevant depressive symptoms was associated with lower sleep quality, higher sleep latency, and the consumption of sleeping pills. In general, female students and students from abroad had a higher risk of depressive symptoms. Addressing these relevant findings in medical school can increase awareness of mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Dudo
- Institute of General Practice & Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Martin Luther University of Halle-Wittenberg, Magdeburger Straße 8, 06112, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Emilia Ehring
- Institute of General Practice & Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Martin Luther University of Halle-Wittenberg, Magdeburger Straße 8, 06112, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Stephan Fuchs
- Institute of General Practice & Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Martin Luther University of Halle-Wittenberg, Magdeburger Straße 8, 06112, Halle (Saale), Germany.
| | - Sabine Herget
- Department of General Practice, Medical Faculty of the University of Leipzig, Philipp-Rosenthal-Straße 55, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Stefan Watzke
- Clinic for Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, University Hospital Halle (Saale), Julius-Kühn-Straße 7, 06112, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Susanne Unverzagt
- Institute of General Practice & Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Martin Luther University of Halle-Wittenberg, Magdeburger Straße 8, 06112, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Thomas Frese
- Institute of General Practice & Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Martin Luther University of Halle-Wittenberg, Magdeburger Straße 8, 06112, Halle (Saale), Germany
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Cernasev A, Kline KM, Barenie RE, Hohmeier KC, Stewart S, Forrest-Bank SS. Healthcare Professional Students’ Perspectives on Substance Use Disorders and Stigma: A Qualitative Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19052776. [PMID: 35270468 PMCID: PMC8909966 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19052776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Background: Access to and quality of care for Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) remain a major public health issue. Stigma associated with SUDs contributes to the gap between the number of patients who need treatment and the much smaller fraction that receive it. Healthcare professional students are future care providers; an opportunity exists to characterize their collective perspectives on patients with SUDs and how that informs the care they provide. Methods: Healthcare professional students participated in online, semi-structured focus group (FGs) between March and April 2021. The FGs were conducted until thematic saturation was achieved. All verbatim transcripts were analyzed applying Thematic Analysis using Dedoose® qualitative software. Inductive codes were grouped into categories based on similarities that facilitated the emergence of themes. Results: Thematic Analysis revealed one theme (1) Decreasing stigma among healthcare professionals by viewing substance use disorder as a disease; and two sub-themes: Subtheme 1a: Relating with the patients, “It could be me…”; Subtheme 1b: Interactions with patients, “We just don’t know exactly how to counsel these patients…” These themes describe how future healthcare professionals might perceive and approach patients with SUDs and highlight the importance of SUD training in the curriculum. Conclusion: Medical and pharmacy students are uniquely positioned to apply critical thinking from their didactic training to their real-world clinical experiences, and their collective perspectives inform gaps in training and opportunities to develop best practices for SUD care. An opportunity exists to leverage these findings in order to train future healthcare professionals to ensure access to and quality of SUD care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina Cernasev
- College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, 301 S. Perimeter Park Drive, Suite 220, Nashville, TN 37211, USA; (K.C.H.); (S.S.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Kiki M. Kline
- College of Social Work, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA;
| | | | - Kenneth C. Hohmeier
- College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, 301 S. Perimeter Park Drive, Suite 220, Nashville, TN 37211, USA; (K.C.H.); (S.S.)
| | - Steven Stewart
- College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, 301 S. Perimeter Park Drive, Suite 220, Nashville, TN 37211, USA; (K.C.H.); (S.S.)
| | - Shandra S. Forrest-Bank
- Director of the Social Work Office of Research and Public Service (SWORPS), College of Social Work, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA;
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Williams CR, Hubal R, Wolcott MD, Kruse A. Interactive Narrative Simulation as a Method for Preceptor Development. PHARMACY (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 10:pharmacy10010005. [PMID: 35076570 PMCID: PMC8788483 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy10010005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
(1) Background: This proof-of-concept study assessed an interactive web-based tool simulating three challenging non-academic learning situations—student professionalism, cross-cultural interactions, and student well-being—as a means of preceptor development. (2) Methods: Three scripts focused on professionalism, cross-cultural interactions, and student well-being were developed and implemented using a commercial narrative tool with branching dialog. Delivered online, this tool presented each challenge to participants. Participants had up to four response options at each turn of the conversation; the choice of response influenced the subsequent conversation, including coaching provided at the resolution of the situation. Participants were invited to complete pre-activity, immediate post-activity, and one-month follow-up questionnaires to assess satisfaction, self-efficacy, engagement, and knowledge change with the tool. Knowledge was assessed through situational judgment tests (SJTs). (3) Results: Thirty-two pharmacist preceptors participated. The frequency of participants reflecting on challenging learning situations increased significantly one-month post-simulation. Participants affirmatively responded that the tool was time-efficient, represented similar challenges they encountered in precepting, was easily navigable, and resulted in learning. Self-efficacy with skills in managing challenging learning situations increased significantly immediately post-simulation and at a one-month follow-up. Knowledge as measured through SJTs was not significantly changed. (4) Conclusions: Preceptors found an interactive narrative simulation a relevant, time-efficient approach for preceptor development for challenging non-academic learning situations. Post-simulation, preceptors more frequently reflected on challenging learning situations, implying behavior change. Self-efficacy and self-report of knowledge increased. Future research is needed regarding knowledge assessments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlene R. Williams
- The Eshelman School of Pharmacy, The University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, Asheville, NC 28804, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-828-250-3906
| | - Robert Hubal
- The Eshelman School of Pharmacy, The University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (R.H.); (M.D.W.); (A.K.)
| | - Michael D. Wolcott
- The Eshelman School of Pharmacy, The University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (R.H.); (M.D.W.); (A.K.)
| | - Abbey Kruse
- The Eshelman School of Pharmacy, The University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (R.H.); (M.D.W.); (A.K.)
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A Structural Equation Modeling of Mental Health Literacy in Healthcare Students. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182413264. [PMID: 34948873 PMCID: PMC8701439 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182413264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background: There is a high prevalence of mental illness among healthcare students, and most students with mental health problems are reluctant to seek help from mental health professionals. Help-seeking is a component of mental health literacy (MHL). Although MHL is conceptualized as multi-dimensional, a theory-based multi-construct of MHL is still lacking. We aimed to build a theory-based multi-construct of MHL to explore the pathways of help-seeking. Methods: The data were obtained from a survey on MHL among healthcare students in 2018 (n = 1294). The Mental Health Literacy Scale for Healthcare Students was used to measure the maintenance of positive mental health, recognition of mental illness, mental illness stigma attitudes, help-seeking efficacy, and help-seeking attitudes. Descriptive analysis and structural equation modeling (SEM) were conducted. Results: The findings of the SEM model indicated recognition of mental illness had a positive direct effect on both help-seeking efficacy and maintenance of positive mental health. Additionally, help-seeking efficacy fully mediated the relationship between recognition of mental illness and help-seeking attitudes. Conclusions: Help-seeking efficacy plays a significant role in healthcare students' willingness to seek professional help when mental health care is needed. Accordingly, improving help-seeking efficacy strategies would increase the use of mental health services and contribute to the prevention of mental health problems.
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Babu S. Response to: 'Mindfulness-based mobile app reduces anxiety and increases self-compassion in healthcare students: A randomised controlled trial'. MEDICAL TEACHER 2021; 43:1459. [PMID: 33886406 DOI: 10.1080/0142159x.2021.1914324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Satia Babu
- School of Medicine, Imperial College, London, UK
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Wash A, Vogel S, Tabe S, Crouch M, Woodruff AL, Duhon B. Longitudinal well-being measurements in doctor of pharmacy students following a college-specific intervention. CURRENTS IN PHARMACY TEACHING & LEARNING 2021; 13:1668-1678. [PMID: 34895677 DOI: 10.1016/j.cptl.2021.09.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2020] [Revised: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Supporting clinician mental health and well-being must start in the learning environment, especially as health profession students have been shown to have higher rates of mental illness than their peers pursuing other careers. This project aimed to support positive mental health in pharmacy students through small changes that faculty implemented both inside and outside of the classroom. EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITY AND SETTING In partnership with the Counseling and Mental Health Center, faculty received training, resources, and (in some cases) classroom observation and feedback on how to incorporate small changes that support student well-being. Assessments were performed each semester beginning in spring 2018 and ending in spring 2020. These included the Mental Health Continuum - Short Form (measuring positive mental health and well-being), the Theories of Intelligence Scale - Self Form for Adults (measuring growth mindset), the Sense of Belonging Scale (measuring five domains of social connectedness), and the Brief Resilience Scale (measuring resilience). Participating faculty were surveyed regarding how frequently selected activities were incorporated into their practice and how comfortable they felt supporting student mental health. FINDINGS Positive trends were seen throughout the project on the scales assessing growth mindset and sense of belonging. SUMMARY Supporting positive mental health in pharmacy students in the learning environment is important for both students and the quality and safety of the health care system. Future efforts should expand on this work by refining the measurements used, identifying more interventions, and evaluating the impact these efforts have as students become pharmacists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Wash
- Health Outcomes Division, University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy, 2409 University Avenue Stop A1930, Austin, TX 78712, United States.
| | - Samantha Vogel
- Clinical Assistant Professor, Division of Pharmacy Practice, University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy, 2409 University Avenue Stop A1910, Austin, TX 78712, United States.
| | - Sophie Tabe
- University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy, 5417 South Mopac Expy Apt 402, Austin, TX 78749, United States.
| | - Mitchell Crouch
- Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, 1901 Veterans Memorial Dr, Temple, TX 76504, United States.
| | - Althea L Woodruff
- Well-being in Learning Environments, University of Texas at Austin Counseling and Mental Health Center, 100 W Dean Keeton St, Austin, TX 78712, United States.
| | - Bryson Duhon
- Division of Pharmacy Practice, University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy, 2409 University Avenue Stop A1900, Austin, TX 78712, United States.
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Buige A, Nguyen M, Harris SC. Barriers to mental health care and stigma perception in doctor of pharmacy students across the United States. CURRENTS IN PHARMACY TEACHING & LEARNING 2021; 13:1634-1645. [PMID: 34895673 DOI: 10.1016/j.cptl.2021.09.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2020] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pharmacy students are significantly less likely than medical students to seek on-campus mental health services, though barriers are not well known. This study's objective is to expand on perceived barriers to seeking care for mental health concerns among doctor of pharmacy students in the United States. METHODS An institutional review board-exempt, online survey was disseminated to eight pharmacy programs' students assessing mental health barriers to care, resource interest, attitudes towards treatment, and stigma. Quantitative data were analyzed aggregately and by gender, program type, employment status, and education year. Free-text response analysis used thematic coding. RESULTS Common barriers to care included lack of time (20.2%), financial support or resources (13.2%), and preferring to solve the issue independently (13.2%). About half agreed their programs had sufficient resources to support mental health (58.4%). Suggested resources included on-site counselors (14.5%), pet therapy (13.4%), and wellness activities (12.3%). Students reported high rates of perceived internal stigma, yet low rates of stigma towards others. No significant differences were found among employment status or program type, but first-year students had more positive attitudes towards mental health treatment. Females were significantly more likely to agree mental health treatment was effective and less likely to view someone differently who received treatment. CONCLUSIONS Common barriers to care included lack of time, finances or resources, and concerns of being viewed differently. Additionally, substantial stigma exists, particularly public perception and concern for negative impact on future opportunities. Programs should take initiative to understand students' needs and interest in support services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Buige
- Virginia Commonwealth University Health System, 401 North 12th Street, Richmond, VA 23298, United States.
| | - Mimi Nguyen
- University of North Carolina Eshelman School of Pharmacy, 301 Pharmacy Lane, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States.
| | - Suzanne C Harris
- University of North Carolina Eshelman School of Pharmacy, 301 Pharmacy Lane, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States.
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Powell KM, Mason NA, Gayar L, Marshall V, Bostwick JR. Impact of a pilot elective course to address student pharmacist well-being. CURRENTS IN PHARMACY TEACHING & LEARNING 2021; 13:1464-1470. [PMID: 34799060 DOI: 10.1016/j.cptl.2021.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Survey results from 2016 and 2018 at the University of Michigan College of Pharmacy highlighted mental health concerns for the student population, including struggles with depression, anxiety, and academic distress. This led to creation of a pilot well-being elective course for first year doctor of pharmacy students. This article describes how this course was assessed and adapted for the future. METHODS The well-being elective course used a course-specific survey and the Brief Inventory of Thriving to assess student outcomes. The course-specific survey was based upon the course objectives and the University of Michigan Common Agenda for Well-Being. Both surveys were given pre- and post-course to identify change. RESULTS Course survey results illustrated an improvement in student well-being over a single semester. Compared with pre-course responses, students who completed the course were significantly more likely to agree with statements indicating they had strong time management skills, resilience to manage the fluctuations of life, were able to make thoughtful choices to reduce harm and promote well-being, and overall rated their well-being as excellent. Additionally, nearly all students felt a sense of strengthened community with peers and faculty within the course, better able to recognize or refer a peer for help, and felt the course contributed to their overall well-being. CONCLUSIONS Implementation of this well-being elective pilot course provided students the tools and resources to improve upon their overall well-being in an effort to address anxiety, depression, and academic distress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly M Powell
- University of Michigan College of Pharmacy, 428 Church Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States.
| | - Nancy A Mason
- University of Michigan College of Pharmacy, 428 Church Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States.
| | - Lena Gayar
- University of Michigan College of Pharmacy, 428 Church Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States.
| | - Vincent Marshall
- University of Michigan College of Pharmacy, 428 Church Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States.
| | - Jolene R Bostwick
- University of Michigan College of Pharmacy, 428 Church Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States.
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Zakeri M, De La Cruz A, Wallace D, Sansgiry SS. General Anxiety, Academic Distress, and Family Distress Among Doctor of Pharmacy Students. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL EDUCATION 2021; 85:8522. [PMID: 34965916 PMCID: PMC8715972 DOI: 10.5688/ajpe8522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Objective. To examine the prevalence of general anxiety among Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) students and the role of academic distress and family distress in causing general anxiety.Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted among first, second, and third year PharmD students. All students received an online survey consisting of the Counseling Center Assessment of Psychological Symptoms-62 (CCAPS-62) questionnaire and sample characteristics. Variables from CCAPS-62 considered in this study included academic distress and family distress measured on a three-level scale: no, low, and high clinical level. Data on gender, race, work status, and physical activity were also collected. Descriptive and multinomial logistic regression were conducted to identify factors associated with general anxiety.Results. Of the 238 students who took the online survey (63% response rate), the majority were female (67%) and Asian (49%). Overall, 69 first year, 75 second year, and 94 third year students participated. The prevalence of general anxiety was 50%, with equal distribution (25% each) among high-clinical and low-clinical general anxiety groups. High academic distress and high family distress were associated with a greater probability of a student having high general anxiety.Conclusion. General anxiety was quite prevalent among pharmacy students. Identification and implementation of strategies to lower general anxiety as well as academic distress is of great importance. Also, understanding and enhancing the role of family members in students' lives is essential. College administrators can provide support for students as well as for family members to make improvements in these areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marjan Zakeri
- University of Houston, College of Pharmacy, Houston, Texas
| | | | - David Wallace
- University of Houston, College of Pharmacy, Houston, Texas
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Happell B, O'Donovan A, Sharrock J, Warner T, Gordon S. They are a different breed aren't they? Exploring how experts by experience influence students through mental health education. Int J Ment Health Nurs 2021; 30 Suppl 1:1354-1365. [PMID: 34021530 DOI: 10.1111/inm.12881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Experts by Experience (EBE) in mental health are increasingly becoming involved in the education of health professionals. In response, research findings suggest positive attitudinal change towards people who experience mental distress and enhanced appreciation of recovery and person-centred approaches to practice. However, this growing body of evidence has not resulted in the broad adoption of these roles in academia. The perspectives of academics instrumental in implementing academic positions for EBE (referred to as allies) have not yet been articulated. Acknowledging this gap, the aim of this research was to explore experiences of allies involved in implementing EBE positions in academia regarding the impact of EBE led education on students. Qualitative exploratory methods were used involving in-depth interviews with allies. Data were analysed thematically. Participants observed significant positive impacts on students, as evidenced through four themes: contextualized learning, enhancing reflection, feedback from the clinical field, and students' own lived experience. The fifth sub-theme, Challenging experiences were observed to potentially detract from the student experience in some instances. Overall, participants were very supportive of EBE involvement and were confident this approach produced more person-centred and recovery-oriented clinicians, with the skills, knowledge and attitudes needed to work as practitioners. These findings support previous research and suggest positive implications for clinical practice and for students with their own mental health challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenda Happell
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, Hunter Institute of Medical Research, Priority Centre for Health Behaviour, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.,Cluster for Resilience and Well-being, CQUniversity, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Aine O'Donovan
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, ENGAGE: Interdisciplinary Clinical Mental health Research Network, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Julie Sharrock
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Terri Warner
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.,ACT Mental Health Consumer Network, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Sarah Gordon
- Department of Psychological Medicine, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
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Greene EM, Greene WN, Greene WL. Addressing the burden of student loan debt: A case-based review of influencing considerations. Am J Health Syst Pharm 2021; 78:2216-2224. [PMID: 34226914 DOI: 10.1093/ajhp/zxab260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The following review is offered as an aid for encouraging deeper understanding by pharmacy graduates of approaches to debt management. SUMMARY The phenomenon of growing debt for pharmacists and other professionals has been well described. Significant debt is widespread with both pharmacy students and graduates; a recent study described the debt-to-income ratio for pharmacists to have risen by 141% between 2010 and 2016. This increasing debt burden causes significant pressure for these individuals-whether while in training, early in their career, or, increasingly, even in midcareer. Dealing with debt has become a major consideration in the profession. Given that financial education is addressed only minimally, if at all, in pharmacy curricula, pharmacists find it challenging to understand and fully consider the myriad factors influencing the accumulation and repayment of debt in the context of their financial goals. Personal financial, repayment, behavioral, and emotional/psychological factors must be considered to choose an optimal strategy to address debt. This article describes various repayment plans, particularly focusing on those offered with direct loans, and it reviews in some detail 5 comprehensive repayment strategies (using these plans). Three case studies derived from real-life pharmacist-planner interactions illustrate the many factors that must be considered as a pharmacist chooses the optimal approach to debt repayment in their unique life situation. CONCLUSION Education of students and pharmacists regarding the various factors related to handling student debt may facilitate decision-making that is both financially and personally beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa M Greene
- Belmont University, Nashville, TN.,Cairn Education Group, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - W Nathan Greene
- Cairn Education Group, Nashville, TN, USA.,Cairn Financial Group, Nashville, TN
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Grabbe L, Higgins MK, Baird M, Pfeiffer KM. Impact of a Resiliency Training to Support the Mental Well-being of Front-line Workers: Brief Report of a Quasi-experimental Study of the Community Resiliency Model. Med Care 2021; 59:616-621. [PMID: 33827106 PMCID: PMC8191373 DOI: 10.1097/mlr.0000000000001535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Front-line workers (FLW) are at risk for secondary traumatic stress, burnout, and related psychiatric sequelae: depression, anxiety, suicidality, posttraumatic stress disorder, and sleep and substance use disorders. FLW are in need of self-care programs to support their mental health. METHODS Quasi-experimental study to assess the impact of a simple mental well-being and emotional regulation training, the Community Resiliency Model (CRM), using a convenience sample of FLW. Baseline scores of mental well-being and stress measures were compared with follow-up scores at 3 time points. Outcomes were psychological wellness (World Health Organization-5 Well-being Index); resilience (Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale-10); traumatic stress (Secondary Traumatic Stress Scale); physical symptoms (Somatic Symptom Scale-8). RESULTS Of the 104 participants who enrolled and attended the CRM training, 73 (70.2%) completed at least 1 posttest. Well-being scores increased at 1 year with a small-moderate effect size (Cohen d=0.32). Resilience scores increased with a small-moderate effect size by 1 year (Cohen d=0.36). Secondary traumatic stress scores declined, with the largest effect at 1 week (Cohen d=0.49). Somatic symptoms decreased at each posttest, with the largest change occurring from baseline to 1 week (d=0.39). Participants reported an awareness of body sensations helped them when overwhelmed as a means of calming themselves. CONCLUSIONS After a 3-hour CRM training, participants reported improved mental well-being and decreased secondary traumatic stress and somatic symptoms. This simple body awareness intervention may be a good resource during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Grabbe
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University
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Vos S, Sandler LA, Chavez R. Help! Accommodating learners with disabilities during practice‐based activities. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN COLLEGE OF CLINICAL PHARMACY 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/jac5.1431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Susan Vos
- The University of Iowa College of Pharmacy Iowa City Iowa USA
| | | | - Raemi Chavez
- The University of Iowa College of Pharmacy Iowa City Iowa USA
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Khorassani F, Hassani B, Conry J, Espejo G. Evaluation of anxiety in doctor of pharmacy students in their first through fourth professional years. CURRENTS IN PHARMACY TEACHING & LEARNING 2021; 13:628-634. [PMID: 33867057 DOI: 10.1016/j.cptl.2021.01.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Doctor of pharmacy (PharmD) student anxiety is not well accounted for in the literature. Anxiety carries the potential to cause impairment in functioning, worsen mental health outcomes, and adversely impact cognition, academic performance, and professionalism. The purpose of this study was to characterize anxiety among PharmD students in their first through fourth professional years. Secondary aims were to compare the prevalence of clinically significant anxiety and severity of anxiety among classes. METHODS A cross-sectional, observational analysis was performed surveying 198 pharmacy students completing professional coursework. A survey shared via social media containing the Zung Self-Anxiety Scale and general demographic questions was distributed to pharmacy students to assess the prevalence and severity of anxiety in first through fourth professional year students. Clinically significant anxiety was defined as a raw score ≥ 36. A one-way analysis of variance was performed to compare the means of all classes and Tukey's honestly significant differences test was performed to evaluate for statistical differences between individual classes. RESULTS Clinically significant anxiety was evident in 65% of respondents. The second professional year class reported the highest rate of anxiety with 84% meeting the threshold for clinically significant anxiety. The fourth professional year class reported the lowest rates with 51% reporting clinically significant anxiety. CONCLUSIONS Anxiety is prevalent in pharmacy students with higher levels of anxiety observed in earlier years. This work highlights opportunities to expand student mental health resources. Further studies are warranted to identify factors contributing to pharmacy student anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farah Khorassani
- St. John's University College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Department of Clinical Health Professions, 8000 Utopia Pkwy, 112 St. Albert's Hall, Queens, NY 11439, United States; Bellevue Hospital Center, Department of Pharmacy, 462 First Ave, Hospital Building, 18N7, New York, NY 10016, United States.
| | - Bessma Hassani
- Southside Hospital, 301 E Main Street, Bay Shore, NY 11706, United States.
| | - John Conry
- St. John's University College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Department of Clinical Health Professions, 8000 Utopia Pkwy, 112 St. Albert's Hall, Queens, NY 11439, United States.
| | - Gemma Espejo
- Bellevue Hospital Center, Department of Psychiatry, 462 First Avenue, Hospital Building 20W50, New York, NY 10016, United States; NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, 550 1st Ave, New York, NY, 10016, United States.
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Amaral CMM, Carvalho RC, Vieira MEB, Aguiar PM. Factors Associated With Use of Medications for Anxiety and Depression in Pharmacy Students in Brazil. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL EDUCATION 2021; 85:8285. [PMID: 34315701 PMCID: PMC8341240 DOI: 10.5688/ajpe8285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Objective. To map undergraduate pharmacy students' use of medications for anxiety and depression and associated factors at one university in Brazil.Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted from May to July 2019 among undergraduate pharmacy students at one university. Data regarding sociodemographic issues and the use of psychotropics were collected using an online questionnaire. Exploratory descriptive analysis of data, the chi-square test, and multivariate binary logistic regression were performed to identify factors associated with the use of medications for anxiety and depression.Results. Of 900 students enrolled, usable survey responses were received from 198. Most respondents were female with a mean age of 22.3 years. Among these, 17.7% of pharmacy students used medications to treat anxiety and 13.1% used medications for depression. The most common psychotropics were escitalopram and fluoxetine. There were two peak usage times: the initial and final year of pharmacy school. Dissatisfaction with the pharmacy program and psychological care were significantly associated with the use of medications for anxiety. In contrast, monthly income from three to 15 times the minimum wage, religiosity/spirituality, and psychological care were associated with students' use of medications for depression.Conclusion. There was a high prevalence of medication use to treat anxiety and depression among undergraduate pharmacy students, and this use was associated with psychological care, monthly income, and religiosity/spirituality.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Renata Cunha Carvalho
- University Hospital of University of São Paulo, Psychiatric Outpatient Clinic, São Paulo, Brazil
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She R, Wang X, Zhang Z, Li J, Xu J, You H, Li Y, Liang Y, Li S, Ma L, Wang X, Chen X, Zhou P, Lau J, Hao Y, Zhou H, Gu J. Mental Health Help-Seeking and Associated Factors Among Public Health Workers During the COVID-19 Outbreak in China. Front Public Health 2021; 9:622677. [PMID: 34046387 PMCID: PMC8144452 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.622677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The COVID-19 outbreak in China has created multiple stressors that threaten individuals' mental health, especially among public health workers (PHW) who are devoted to COVID-19 control and prevention work. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of mental help-seeking and associated factors among PHW using Andersen's Behavioral Model of Health Services Use (BMHSU). Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 9,475 PHW in five provinces across China between February 18 and March 1, 2020. The subsample data of those who reported probable mental health problems were analyzed for this report (n = 3,417). Logistic and hierarchical regression analyses were conducted to examine the associations of predisposing, enabling, need, and COVID-19 contextual factors with mental health help-seeking. Results: Only 12.7% of PHW reported professional mental help-seeking during the COVID-19 outbreak. PHW who were older, had more days of overnight work, received psychological training, perceived a higher level of support from the society, had depression and anxiety were more likely to report mental help-seeking (ORm range: 1.02–1.73, all p < 0.05) while those worked in Centers for Disease Control and Prevention were less likely to seek help (ORm = 0.57, p < 0.01). The belief that mental health issues were not the priority (64.4%), lack of time (56.4%), and shortage of psychologists (32.7%) were the most frequently endorsed reasons for not seeking help. Conclusions: The application of BMHSU confirmed associations between some factors and PHW's mental health help-seeking. Effective interventions are warranted to promote mental health help-seeking of PHW to ameliorate the negative impact of mental illness and facilitate personal recovery and routine work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui She
- Centre for Health Behaviours Research, Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xiaohui Wang
- School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Zhoubin Zhang
- Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jinghua Li
- School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Sun Yat-sen University Global Health Institute, School of Public Health and Institute of State Governance, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jingdong Xu
- Hubei Province Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Wuhan, China
| | - Hua You
- School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yan Li
- Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuan Liang
- School of Public Health, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shan Li
- Zigong Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Zigong, China
| | - Lina Ma
- Hubei Province Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Wuhan, China
| | - Xinran Wang
- School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiuyuan Chen
- School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Peien Zhou
- School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Joseph Lau
- Centre for Health Behaviours Research, Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yuantao Hao
- School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Sun Yat-sen University Global Health Institute, School of Public Health and Institute of State Governance, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huan Zhou
- West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jing Gu
- School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Sun Yat-sen University Global Health Institute, School of Public Health and Institute of State Governance, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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49
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Sun W, Alzouby H, Harris S. Mental health resources in pharmacy schools. CURRENTS IN PHARMACY TEACHING & LEARNING 2021; 13:333-339. [PMID: 33715793 DOI: 10.1016/j.cptl.2020.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This study aims to examine the availability of mental health resources available to pharmacy students. Identifying if pharmacy schools have specific resources is important given the increasing prevalence of mental health disorders among pharmacy students. METHODS This study has two arms: (1) survey sent to representatives of student affairs of 11 pharmacy schools, and (2) website scan performed of all pharmacy schools in the United States. The survey collected information on mental health resources available including availability, location, and future plans. The website scan examined resources at each school listed on the doctor of pharmacy school directory on the Pharmacy College Application Service website, and the difficulty of locating this information. Microsoft Excel was used to perform descriptive statistics. RESULTS For the survey arm (n = 9), 83% of respondents were directors of student affairs. Top services located within the university campus, but not within the pharmacy school, were wellness activities (67%) and an on-site counselor (89%). Similarly, for the website scan (n = 150), most schools had availability of an on-site counselor; however, 83% of counselors were located within the university campus, not within the pharmacy school. For 77% of pharmacy schools, no information on mental health resources was found on their websites. The information was considered "somewhat" or "extremely difficult" to find for 45% of schools. CONCLUSION Both arms found that the most commonly available services, including an on-site counselor, were not located at the pharmacy school but instead part of university campus services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendy Sun
- University of North Carolina, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, 301 Pharmacy Ln, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States.
| | - Hiba Alzouby
- University of North Carolina, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, 301 Pharmacy Ln, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States.
| | - Suzanne Harris
- University of North Carolina, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, 301 Pharmacy Ln, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States.
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50
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Almanasef M. Mental Health Literacy and Help-Seeking Behaviours Among Undergraduate Pharmacy Students in Abha, Saudi Arabia. Risk Manag Healthc Policy 2021; 14:1281-1286. [PMID: 33790673 PMCID: PMC8006949 DOI: 10.2147/rmhp.s289211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The serious mental health problems experienced by university students could have a negative impact on their long-term mental, social and physical health as well as their academic achievements. The ability to recognise a condition, and knowledge about mental health issues and sources of help, are among the factors influencing help-seeking behaviour in young individuals. This study was conducted to examine the mental health literacy among undergraduate pharmacy students and to assess whether mental health literacy is linked to a stronger intention to seek help. Methods This prospective cross-sectional study used an online self-administered questionnaire. A total of 271 pharmacy students at King Khalid University completed the questionnaire and agreed to participate in the study. Results The mental health literacy in the current study (M=112.53) was found to be lower than that reported in international research using the MHLS. Students with no history of mental health issues scored significantly higher in help-seeking behaviours from informal sources (M=23.65, SD=6.88) than those with a previous history (M=19.03, SD=7.58), F (1, 269)=11.76, p=0.001. The study revealed a significant positive correlation between mental health literacy and help-seeking behaviours r(271)=0.26, p<0.01. Conclusion This study demonstrates that there is a positive correlation between mental health literacy and help-seeking behaviours. Implementing appropriate interventions could be a key priority in improving the mental health literacy and help-seeking behaviour of students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona Almanasef
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
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