0401 Factors Associated with Insomnia in Male University Students

Abstract

Abstract Introduction University students can experience high levels of stress, and this can impact sleep quality and increase insomnia symptomology. Little research has investigated insomnia in male university students. This study examined factors associated with insomnia in male students to address concerns and direct resources. Methods Male students aged 18-35 at Memorial University completed an online survey. The Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) was used as the dependent variable to measure insomnia. Participants self-reported demographic and academic variables and also completed the Morning Evening Questionnaire (MEQ), Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS), Medical Outcomes Study Social Support Survey (MOS-SSS), Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10), and indicated sleep medication and stimulant use. Univariate and multivariate linear regressions were used to examine the relationship between insomnia and demographic factors, chronotype, social support, mindfulness, psychological distress, and sleep medication and stimulant use. Results The majority of participants (n=564; Mage = 23) were white (77.8%), undergraduates (76.3%), and enrolled full-time (90.7%). The mean insomnia severity score was 7.7 (SD = 5.42). Overall, 46% scored in the no insomnia range, 36% scored in the subthreshold insomnia range, 16% scoring in the clinical insomnia (moderate severity) range, and 2% scored in the clinical insomnia (severe) range. At the univariate level, sleep medication use (β = -.275, p < .001), stimulant use (β = -.158, p < .001), chronotype (β = -.344, p < .001), social support (β = -.244, p < .001), mindfulness (β = -.409, p < .001), and distress (β = .577, p < .001), were significantly associated with insomnia symptom severity. In the multivariate model (Adjusted R2 = .40, p < .001), only evening chronotype (β = -.195, p < .001), greater distress (β = .429, p < .001), and sleep medication use (β = -.139, p < .001) remained significantly related to insomnia. Conclusion This study identified factors associated with insomnia in male university students. Addressing insomnia, particularly in those with evening chronotype and those who use sleeping medication, may improve psychological distress and the overall well-being of male university students. Support (if any) Dr. Sheila Garland is supported by a Canadian Cancer Society Emerging Scholar Award (Survivorship) (grant #707146).