engleski

Mental health in academic setting

Background and aim Mental health is essential part of well-being. Mental health problems could affect student's mental capability, attention, reliability, optimism, energy level and hindering academic performance and achievement. The aim of this study was to investigate mental health of first year medical students. Subjects and methods Cross- sectional study was conducted among first year medical students at University of Zagreb. Generation in academic year 2008/09 comprised 242 participants (70.7% female) and in 2018/19, 274 (62.2% female). Data was collecting using anonymous questionnaire. For the purpose of this study, we compared answers about mental health of two generations using descriptive statistics. Results Sense of apathy (m 5.7%, f 2%), feeling irritable (m 4.3%, f 3%), nervousness (m 8.6%, f 5%) and sleeping difficulties (m 1.4%, f <1%) were present daily more among male than female in generation 2008/08. In generation 2018/19, sense of apathy (F 14%, M 7%), feeling irritable (F 10%, M 4%), nervousness (F 11%, M 5%) and sleeping difficulties (F 5%, M 4%) were present more among female. Sleeping pills were used more often among male students in 2008/09 (m 4.4%, f 1%) and in 2018/19 more among female (F 4%, M 1%). Anti- anxiety medications were used more often among male students of both generations (m 2.9%, f 2% ; M 6%, F 2%). Conclusion The results of this study showed presence and increase in daily mental health problems in later generation of medical students that may affect student’s ability to involve with their studies, make contacts and create the most of their university involvement. Results of the study implies necessity for mental health screening and increase of counselling and mental health service availability for students.

mental health, university students, counselling

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