The Prevalence of Stigmatizing Beliefs towards Mental Illness and Mental Health Nursing among Third-Year Undergraduate Nursing Students in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: A Review

Abstract

Background: Stigmatizing beliefs towards mental illness and mental health nursing are a global concern, as they can impact the quality of care provided to patients. In Saudi Arabia, nursing students undergo 16 weeks of clinical training in mental health facilities, which may influence their attitudes towards mental illness and mental health nursing.  Aim: The main aim of this review was to examine the prevalence of stigmatizing beliefs towards mental illness and mental health nursing among third-year undergraduate nursing students in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Methodology: A comprehensive search of relevant databases was conducted to identify studies that examined the attitudes of nursing students towards mental illness and mental health nursing in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The search was limited to studies published in English between 2015 and 2022. Main Findings: The literature review identified several studies that examined the attitudes of nursing students towards mental illness and mental health nursing in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. These studies found that stigmatizing beliefs towards mental illness are prevalent among nursing students in Saudi Arabia. Factors such as cultural norms, personal experience, and professional experience were identified as contributing to these attitudes. Educational interventions, including lectures, videos, and direct contact, may be effective in addressing stigma and improving attitudes towards mental illness. Conclusion and Recommendations: Stigmatizing beliefs towards mental illness and mental health nursing are prevalent among third-year undergraduate nursing students in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Factors such as cultural norms, personal experience, and professional experience may contribute to these attitudes. Educational interventions, including lectures, videos, and direct contact, may be effective in addressing stigma and improving attitudes towards mental illness. Further research is needed to better understand the factors that contribute to stigmatizing beliefs and to identify the most effective interventions for reducing stigma among nursing students in Saudi Arabia.