Mental Health Disturbances and Related Problems in Italian University Medical Students from 2000 to 2020: An Integrative Review of Qualitative and Quantitative Studies

Abstract

Background and objectives: The presence of mental health problems in the population of medical students in Italy has been evaluated in several cross-sectional studies, which have used different methodologies and study designs. However, a global overview of the prevalence of mental health problems in Italian medical students is not available, although this would be essential for promoting preventive strategies and supportive treatments. Materials and Methods: An integrative review aiming to describe the prevalence of mental health problems in Italian medical students has been performed. Results: The most relevant findings are the high prevalence of substance use, in particular alcohol and nicotine, and of depressive and anxiety disorders in Italian medical students. In particular, substance use ranges from 13 to 86%, which is higher compared to Italian students coming from other faculties. Italian medical students show a high rate of smoking and of depressive symptoms of about 20%. Conclusions: Our findings highlight the need to develop appropriate supportive interventions for the medical student population, which are rarely provided and implemented among the routine activities of Italian medical universities. A relevant aspect to be considered is the stigma and anticipated discrimination attached to mental disorders, which reduce the help-seeking process in medical students.

Parental bonding, depression, and suicidal ideation in medical students

“…Assessment with item #9 of the BDI-II likewise found the presence of suicidal ideation in nearly one in five students. However, our data concurs with that of Sampogna et al (2020) about the percentage of suicidal thoughts in Italian medical students, which was reported to be around 17%. Because our finding agrees with the Italian data but differs from those abroad and in the general population, the evidence adds statistical significance to the psychological condition of medical students in Italy.…”

“…Among Italian medical students, according to Sampogna et al (2020) , the results showed a high prevalence of substance use, especially alcohol (range 13–86%), cigarettes (range 15–31%,), compared to Italian students from other degree programs. Cigarette use is also slightly higher than in the general population in Italy, which is around 20% ( Lugo et al, 2017 ).…”

“…The prevalence rate of depression is around 20%, with depressive symptoms reported more frequently by female medical students. The prevalence of suicidal thoughts is around 17%, and is higher in men ( Sampogna et al, 2020 ).…”

Gender Differences in COVID-19 Lockdown Impact on Mental Health of Undergraduate Students

“…University years coincide with the peak period of risk for the onset of mental disorders (34), and they are associated with a significant increase in risky health behaviors (35). Considering the importance of undergraduate students to the future social capital of society and the potential negative impact of mental health problems on their lives, prevention and early treatment of mental health problems in these specific years represent a key public health priority (36)(37)(38).…”

The effects of perceived psychological, educational, and financial impact of COVID-19 pandemic on Greek university students’ satisfaction with life through Mental Health

“…Along with that, another potential limitation was the absence of medical students in the current study. Medical students are reported being in a higher risk compared to other student majors and the general population in developing depressive disorders ( Rotenstein et al., 2016 ), anxiety disorders and substance abuse ( Sampogna et al., 2020 ).…”