Prevalence and Predictors of Depression, Anxiety and Stress among Pharmacy Students from Umm Al-Qura University, Saudi Arabia

Introduction: There is an increasing concern about the effect of mental diseases on academic performance, especially among students from the health specialties. However, very limited studies were done on depression, anxiety, and stress among pharmacy students in Makkah. The current study aimed to determine the prevalence and predictors of depression, anxiety, and stress among pharmacy students from Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among pharmacy students from both genders in 2018/2019. A standardized self-administered data collection sheet was used. It contained information about the personal, socio-demographic data, the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21), and Schutte Self-Report Emotional Intelligence (SSREI) scale. Descriptive and inferential statistics were done. Stepwise multiple logistic regression analyses were done. Adjusted odds ratios (aORs) and 95% confidence intervals were calculated.

Results: The prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress among pharmacy students was high; 62.8%, 59.0%, and 49.2%, respectively. Younger students suffered more from stress compared to older students. In regression analysis, academic stress was associated with the increased risk of depression, anxiety, and stress. However, good general life satisfaction is a predictor of decreasing depression, anxiety, and stress. Better emotional intelligence is also a predictor of decreased depression (aOR = 0.195; 95% CI: 0.09-0.42) and stress (aOR = 0.4; 95% CI: 0.21-0.72). A longer duration of physical exercise is another predictor for lowering stress.

Conclusion: The prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress was high among pharmacy students. Academic stress was a predictor for depression, anxiety, and stress. General life satisfaction and high EI were protective from the three mental illnesses. A longer duration of physical exercise is a predictor for decreasing stress. Screening programs are needed for the detection and management of depression, anxiety, and stress among pharmacy students. Psychosocial and academic support services are needed for the management of academic stress. Training courses and educational programs are needed for improving the EI of pharmacy students. Encourage the practicing a longer duration of physical activities is needed.