Association Between Academic Discipline and Psychotropic Medication Use in Business and Health Science Students
Andriana Chin
Co-Presenters: Cassandra McCabe, Emma Birney, Patrick Martins, Rebekah Morriello, Lily Dworak, Gianna Kiszka, Chaniay O'Brien
College: The College of Health Professions and Human Services
Major: Physician Assistant Studies (M.S.)
Faculty Research Mentor: Wendy Ritch
Abstract:
Title: Association Between Academic Discipline and Psychotropic Medication Use in Business and Health Science StudentsAuthors: Andriana Chin, Hannah Carter-Prendergast, Cassandra McCabe, Tatum Albrecht, Amanda Bergner, Emma BirneyAbstract:Objective/Purpose: Mental health challenges are a common focus in research regarding higher education students. However, the relationship between academic discipline and mental health remains underexplored. This study examines the prevalence of mental health diagnoses among business and health science students, with a specific focus on the association between psychotropic medication use and distinct fields of study.Methods: A cross-sectional survey was distributed to undergraduate and graduate students, with a total of 46 business and 58 health science responses. The survey assessed various mental health-related factors, and Intellectus Statistics software was used to analyze the relationships between academic discipline and psychotropic medication use.Results/Findings: Results revealed health science students to have higher rates of diagnosed mental health conditions and psychotropic medication use compared to business students. Additionally, a greater proportion of health science students reported that their academic culture is more open to discussing and normalizing mental health issues compared to business students.Conclusions: These findings suggest a significant association between academic discipline and psychotropic medication use, with health science students reporting higher usage rates compared to business students. This highlights the potential influence of academic culture on mental health behaviors and attitudes.Significance/Novelty: This study contributes to student mental health research by highlighting how academic culture shapes discussions and behaviors related to mental health, including medication use. By comparing business and health science students, it identifies key differences that can inform targeted interventions. Future research should explore how exposure to mental health curriculum across disciplines influences attitudes and behaviors.Keywords: Mental Health, Psychotropic Medication, Higher Education, Academic Discipline, Academic Culture