Depression, anxiety and stress among dental undergraduate students; prevalence, stressors and relieving factors

Abstract

Aim: To investigate the depression, anxiety and stress, stressors and relieving factors among dental students at Kulliyyah of Dentistry (KOD). 
 
 Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 222 dental students. Their socio-demographic data, self-reported depression, anxiety and stress (DASS-21) scores, causes and relieving factors were collected using validated semi-structured pre-tested questionnaires. The data was analysed using percentages, chi-square test and Binary logistic regression tests with SPSS version 24. 
 
 Results: The prevalence of depression, anxiety and stress was 41%, 68.9% and 34.2% respectively. Regression analysis showed that academic-related reasons were significantly contributed to stress symptoms among dental students [OR (95% CI) = 0.4 (0.2 – 1.0)]. Furthermore, the item ‘examination’ being the highest factor chosen in academic-related stressors. The highest response for relieving factors was Islamic ritual prayer/spiritual activities (94.6%), followed by sleeping (86.5%) and doing exercise/playing sports (76.1%), while ‘seeking professional help’ (19.8%) relieved stress levels the least. 
 
 Conclusions: This study suggests that depressive, anxiety and stress symptoms are prevalent among dental students. Islamic ritual prayer and involvement in spiritual related activities found to be the most preferred way of students to release their stress. Hence, it is vital that the university continually evaluates the psychological health of the students, tailor preventive measures and spiritual related programs to help students coping with stress.