Depressive symptoms in dentistry students – prevalence, risk factors and resilience factors

Introduction: Depression is a leading cause of illness-related disability worldwide. An initial peak of illness is recorded in the young adult years. Among epidemiologic studies of young people, studies of students are primarily available. The mental health of dental students has received little research attention. Many students subjectively report mental health complaints, while studies on this topic are scarce nationally and internationally. This study investigates the mental health of dental students at a medium-sized German university. Methods: A sample of n = 153 dental students completed the Beck Depression Inventory-II to assess depressive symptoms, the NEO Five-Factor Inventory to assess the personality trait neuroticism, and a self-description and study questionnaire that included 8 risk factors, 5 study-related stress factors, and 8 resilience factors described in literature. Results: 41,8 % of the students showed mild (18,3 %), moderate (17,0 %), or severe (6,5 %) depressive symptoms. 5 potential risk factors, 4 potential stress factors and 5 potential resilience factors were identified, which also revealed a cumulative effect: The more risk and stress factors the students indicated, the more depressive symptoms they showed. The opposite was true for the resilience factors. Discussion: The prevalence of depressive symptoms in dental students exceeds that of both the general population and previous national and international studies of depressive symptoms in students. Neuroticism and the use of drugs and medications are potential risk factors, and excessive demands and pressure to perform are study-related stress factors. Emotional support and satisfaction with studies have a protective effect against depressive symptoms. Conclusion: The results are of great significance not only because of the current psychological strain on dental students but also regarding their role in the health care system. Students should be informed and sensitized regarding this issue. Specific education on depression is useful to destigmatize the issue and raise awareness of the condition. University programs can also contribute to an early recognition and prevention of depressive symptoms to protect the mental health of potential future dentists. Keywords: dentistry students, depression, depressive symptoms, mental health, prevalence, prevention, resilience factors, risk factors