Assessment of Mental Health in Doctor of Pharmacy Students

Introduction: Pharmacy student mental health is of increasing concern to faculty, administrators, and students. The objectives of this study were to investigate the mental health of doctor of pharmacy (PharmD) students at a four-year college of pharmacy (COP), compare components of mental health of PharmD students to the general university campus students, and examine the relationship between academic distress and specific components of mental health.

Methods: The mental health status of PharmD students was measured using the Counseling Center Assessment of Psychological Symptoms (CCAPS-62), a validated survey tool assessing eight subscales of mental health. Comparisons were made within the PharmD student population and to the general campus population at the same university, who were surveyed during the same time period. Statistical analysis included a series of univariate regressions and chi square testing.

Results: Fifty-eight percent of PharmD students (193/332) voluntarily participated in the study. Over 25% of PharmD students scored in the high severity range for depression, generalized anxiety, academic distress, and eating concerns. Academic distress scores were significantly worse for second-year PharmD students, while hostility scores were significantly worse for third-year PharmD students. Correlations were identified between academic distress and depression, generalized anxiety, and social anxiety. PharmD scores in several subscales were significantly worse than the general campus population.

Conclusion: High academic stress levels and poor mental health outcomes were observed in PharmD students. Identification and implementation of methods to reduce the psychological distress of PharmD students are needed.