MPC Member Publications

This database contains a listing of population studies publications written by MPC Members. Anyone can add a publication by an MPC student, faculty, or staff member to this database; new citations will be reviewed and approved by MPC administrators.

Full Citation

Title: Persistence of mental health problems and needs in a college student population.

Citation Type: Journal Article

Publication Year: 2009

ISSN: 1573-2517

DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2009.01.001

PMID: 19178949

Abstract: BACKGROUND Cross-sectional studies indicate a high prevalence of mental health problems among college students, but there are fewer longitudinal data on these problems and related help-seeking behavior. METHODS We conducted a baseline web-based survey of students attending a large public university in fall 2005 and a two-year follow-up survey in fall 2007. We used brief screening instruments to measure symptoms of mental disorders (anxiety, depression, eating disorders), as well as self-injury and suicidal ideation. We estimated the persistence of these mental health problems between the two time points, and determined to what extent students with mental health problems perceived a need for or used mental health services (medication or therapy). We conducted logistic regression analyses examining how baseline predictors were associated with mental health and help-seeking two years later. RESULTS Over half of students suffered from at least one mental health problem at baseline or follow-up. Among students with at least one mental health problem at baseline, 60% had at least one mental health problem two years later. Among students with a mental health problem at both time points, fewer than half received treatment between those time points. LIMITATIONS Mental health problems are based on self-report to brief screens, and the sample is from a single university. CONCLUSIONS These findings indicate that mental disorders are prevalent and persistent in a student population. While the majority of students with probable disorders are aware of the need for treatment, most of these students do not receive treatment, even over a two-year period.

Url: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19178949

User Submitted?: No

Authors: Zivin, Kara; Eisenberg, Daniel; Gollust, Sarah Elizabeth; Golberstein, Ezra

Periodical (Full): Journal of affective disorders

Issue: 3

Volume: 117

Pages: 180-5

Countries:

IPUMS NHGIS NAPP IHIS ATUS Terrapop