Gender Differences In Scores Of Anxiety And Depression Among Physical Therapy Students Of Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study

ABSTRACT

Purpose: The current study aimed to determine the prevalence of depression and anxiety disorders among physical therapy students and to identify any gender differences. Methods: This study used a cross-sectional approach to investigate physical therapy students and collected data via the Beck Depression Inventory and Beck Anxiety Inventory as well as demographic and social information. Data collection occurred during the middle of the 2016/17 academic year, beginning in the second week of the academic term, and finishing in the fifth week. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests. Results: Among the 215 students included in this study, the prevalence of anxiety and depression was 33% and 34% respectively. In addition, gender differences showed that female students were more likely to experience severe and moderate anxiety levels compared to male students. Conclusions: Physical therapy students reported alarming levels of anxiety and depression. Gender differences also existed with regard to anxiety and other factors. The presence of mental health concerns potentially compromises the academic achievement and quality of life for students. Urgent intervention is required to avoid or at least reduce such high levels of anxiety and depression among university students.