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Depressive symptoms in chiropractic students: a 3-year study.
Stuart Kinsinger1, Aaron Anthony Puhl, Christine J Reinhart
1Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College.
The Journal of Chiropractic Education
|November 10, 2011
Summary
Nearly 25% of chiropractic students experience depressive symptoms, with higher rates in second-year students and females. This highlights the need for mental health support in chiropractic education.
Area of Science:
- Health Professions Education
- Mental Health Research
- Chiropractic Studies
Background:
- Intensive health care education may negatively impact students' mental and emotional well-being.
- This can hinder the development of essential qualities for proficient health care professionals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the prevalence and severity of depressive symptoms among chiropractic students.
- To identify differences in symptom rates based on sex and year of training.
Main Methods:
- Longitudinal survey of chiropractic students at Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College (2000-2003).
- Utilized the Beck Depression Inventory, 2nd edition (BDI-II) for symptom assessment.
- Compared BDI-II scores by sex and academic year.
Main Results:
- 1303 students (70% response rate) completed the survey.
- Nearly 25% of students reported depressive symptoms (mild, moderate, or severe).
- Second-year students and females exhibited higher prevalence of depressive symptoms.
Conclusions:
- Chiropractic students exhibit high rates of depression, comparable to other health professions.
- Chiropractic institutions must address student mental health and well-being.
- Promote awareness of personal health resources for students.
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