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A comparative study of mental health and wellbeing among UK students on professional degree programmes

Lewis, E G; Cardwell, J M

Authors

E G Lewis

J M Cardwell



Abstract

Despite elevated rates of suicide and evidence of poor mental health among medical professionals, there is a paucity of research in the UK into the mental health of students destined for these careers. This study estimated and compared the prevalence of mental ill-health in students studying veterinary medicine, medicine, dentistry and pharmacy in the United Kingdom. A group of law students was also included, who, although subject to similar stressors as undergraduates, do not go on to share a heightened risk of suicide as professionals. A total of 1744 respondents completed a questionnaire with validated measures to assess wellbeing, psychological distress, depression and suicidal ideation and attempts. Results indicated that law students experienced the poorest mental health of the student groups studied. Wellbeing was highest among veterinary and medical students. However, the medical students were the most likely to have previously attempted suicide. These findings highlight the importance of directly comparing student groups and of appropriately supporting students as they progress through training and into the professions.

Citation

Lewis, E. G., & Cardwell, J. M. (2018). A comparative study of mental health and wellbeing among UK students on professional degree programmes. Journal of Further and Higher Education, 43(9), 1226-1238. https://doi.org/10.1080/0309877X.2018.1471125

Journal Article Type Article
Acceptance Date Apr 24, 2018
Publication Date Jul 26, 2018
Deposit Date Aug 8, 2018
Publicly Available Date Mar 29, 2024
Journal Journal of Further and Higher Education
Print ISSN 0309-877X
Publisher Routledge
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 43
Issue 9
Pages 1226-1238
DOI https://doi.org/10.1080/0309877X.2018.1471125
Public URL https://rvc-repository.worktribe.com/output/1386463

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