Comparison of Stress, Anxiety and Depression in Preclinical and Clinical Dental Students
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Objective: To compare factors correlating with stress, anxiety, and depression between dental students (DS) in preclinical (PP) and clinical programs (CP). Method: This study involved 165 DS, utilizing the DASS-21, GAD-7, PSS-10, and PHQ-9 assessments. The data were analyzed using the Rasch model and Spearman test. Result: The study included 38.18% in PP and 61.81% in CP (M:F 1:3.7), and a mean age of 21.99 ± 2.36 years. Person map revealed perceptual differences in anxiety and depression between groups, but not in stress. In the PP group, family was the sole factor correlating with stress (p = 0.032). Stress was the primary mental health concern among dental students, particularly during both preclinical and clinical programs. Anxiety and depression, though less common in the preclinical stage, increased significantly in the clinical phase. In the CP group, both supervisor and family (p < 0.05) were correlated with anxiety, while age and self-health (p < 0.05) were linked to depression. Conclusion: Stress was the primary mental health concern among dental students, particularly during both preclinical and clinical programs. Anxiety and depression, though less common in the preclinical stage, increased significantly in the clinical phase. Identifying factors such as family, supervisors, age, self-health, and academic progression is essential for developing effective strategies to support dental students' mental health.
Source: Psychopharmacology Bulletin
DOI: 10.64719/pb.4547
Authors: Yohana Yusra, Indrayadi Gunardi, Wiwiek Poedjiastoeti, Anggraeny Putri Sekar Palupi, Ade Prijanti Dwisaptarini, Jamison Wijaya, Elizabeth Fitriana Sari
Institutions: Universitas Trisakti, La Trobe University
Language: English
Subfield: General Health Professions
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W4412156932