Evaluation of Mental Health Status for the Prevalence of Psychiatric Illnesses with Assessment of Knowledge and Use of Psychotropic Drugs among Medical Students

Abstract

Background: Medical students are at high risk of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. There is limited data on the prevalence of psychiatric illness and psychotropic drug use among medical students in India.

Objectives: To evaluate mental health status, determine prevalence of psychiatric illnesses, and assess knowledge, attitude, and use of psychotropic drugs among undergraduate medical students.

Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted among 303 undergraduate medical students at Government Medical College. The Kessler’s Psychological Distress Scale (K10) was used to assess mental health status. Attitude towards psychotropic medications was assessed using the Self-Report Attitude Questionnaire (SRAQ). Data were analyzed using SPSS v25 with Chi-square, unpaired t-test, and ANOVA.

Results: Of 303 students (158 males, 145 females; age 18–29 years), 42% were likely to be well, 23% had mild disorder, 15% moderate, and 20% severe mental disorder. The 2020 batch showed the highest prevalence of severe disorder. Females had a higher proportion of mental disorders than males, though the difference was not statistically significant. Overall, students showed a positive attitude towards psychotropic medications; however, negative attitude was more prevalent in junior batches (P<0.004). Only 2.97% of students were on prescribed psychotropic medication.

Conclusion: A significant proportion of undergraduate medical students experience psychiatric distress. Regular mental health screening, counseling, and competency-based education are recommended to address negative attitudes and improve early detection of psychiatric disorders.