Attitude towards mental illness and seeking professional help among pharmacy students in Yemen

Abstract

Background: People with mental illnesses (MIs) often encounter stigmatising attitudes. The main aim of this study was to assess pharmacy students’ attitudes toward MIs, people with MIs, seeking help for mental health, and knowledge of the causes of MIs. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted from May 2021 to July 2021 in Yemen. Logistic regression, chi-square test, and student's t-test were used for statistical analyses. Results: Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that female gender was independently associated with a positive attitude towards MIs (adjusted odds ratio, aOR 1.85, 95% confidence interval, CI 1.14–2.99) and knowledge (aOR 3.04, 95% CI 1.85–5.02). Also, having a patient with MI in family was associated with knowledge (aOR 2.69, 95% CI 1.03–6.99). Conclusion: The current study revealed negative attitudes and stigma towards MIs and seeking professional help. Campaigns should be carried out among pharmacy students to reduce stigma.