Barriers to mental health care and stigma perception in doctor of pharmacy students across the United States

Abstract

IntroductionPharmacy students are significantly less likely than medical students to seek on-campus mental health services, though barriers are not well known. This study's objective is to expand on perceived barriers to seeking care for mental health concerns among doctor of pharmacy students in the United States. MethodsAn institutional review board-exempt, online survey was disseminated to eight pharmacy programs' students assessing mental health barriers to care, resource interest, attitudes towards treatment, and stigma. Quantitative data were analyzed aggregately and by gender, program type, employment status, and education year. Free-text response analysis used thematic coding. ResultsCommon barriers to care included lack of time (20.2%), financial support or resources (13.2%), and preferring to solve the issue independently (13.2%). About half agreed their programs had sufficient resources to support mental health (58.4%). Suggested resources included on-site counselors (14.5%), pet therapy (13.4%), and wellness activities (12.3%). Students reported high rates of perceived internal stigma, yet low rates of stigma towards others. No significant differences were found among employment status or program type, but first-year students had more positive attitudes towards mental health treatment. Females were significantly more likely to agree mental health treatment was effective and less likely to view someone differently who received treatment. ConclusionsCommon barriers to care included lack of time, finances or resources, and concerns of being viewed differently. Additionally, substantial stigma exists, particularly public perception and concern for negative impact on future opportunities. Programs should take initiative to understand students' needs and interest in support services.