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Ou J, Wang K, Zuo M, Chen D, Luo H. Factors Influencing the Mental Health of First-Year College Students: Evidence from Digital Records of Daily Behaviors. Behav Sci (Basel) 2025; 15:618. [PMID: 40426396 PMCID: PMC12109279 DOI: 10.3390/bs15050618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2025] [Revised: 04/28/2025] [Accepted: 04/29/2025] [Indexed: 05/29/2025] Open
Abstract
The mental health of college students, particularly first-year students, deserves significant attention. As they transition from high school to college, they experience substantial changes not only in their learning behaviors but also in their daily behaviors, which may pose mental health challenges. However, existing studies exploring the factors influencing college students' mental health still have limitations in the selection of predictor variables and behavior assessment. Building on this, our study adopted a cross-sectional design involving 110 first-year college students in China (M = 17.94 years; 47 males, 63 females) and analyzed the impact of daily behaviors on mental health. We collected daily behavioral data through a designed mini program, and assessed mental health using the GHQ-28. LASSO regression was applied to identify key behavioral predictors, and semi-structured interviews were conducted to further explore the impact of these factors. The results show that sleep quality, planned and implemented physical exercise, average self-evaluation scores, average daily number of planned tasks, and the completion rate of planned tasks have a positive impact on mental health. These findings contribute to enhancing the theoretical understanding of how daily behaviors shape college students' mental health and offer practical guidance for universities to carry out mental health education.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Di Chen
- Faculty of Artificial Intelligence in Education, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, China; (J.O.); (K.W.); (M.Z.)
| | - Heng Luo
- Faculty of Artificial Intelligence in Education, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, China; (J.O.); (K.W.); (M.Z.)
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Ma YB, Zheng ZA, Yao ZY, Xu XM, Zhou XY, Kou CG, Yao B, Sun WJ, Li R, Gong XJ, Gao LJ, Jia CX. The effect of social media use on suicidal ideation in college students: Mediation by daytime sleepiness and sleep quality. J Affect Disord 2025; 374:274-281. [PMID: 39800068 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2025.01.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2024] [Revised: 01/08/2025] [Accepted: 01/09/2025] [Indexed: 01/15/2025]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social media use and daytime sleepiness are common among university students and have significant implications for their mental health. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of social media use on suicidal ideation among university students and to analyse the mediating effects of daytime sleepiness and sleep quality. METHODS A total of 5899 full-time undergraduate students were included in this study. Questionnaires were distributed and collected using the QuestionStar platform. Logistic regression analysis was used to examine the association between social media use, daytime sleepiness and sleep quality, and suicidal ideation among college students. The mediation model was tested using the bias-corrected percentile bootstrap method. RESULTS Among 4835 students, 612 (12.66 %) reported having had suicidal ideation. Regression analysis revealed that social media use (OR = 1.09, 1.05-1.12), daytime sleepiness (OR = 1.09, 1.06-1.11), general and poor sleep quality (OR = 1.89, 1.56-2.28; OR = 4.82, 3.76-6.18) were all significantly and positively associated with suicidal ideation. Furthermore, there was a chain-mediated effect of daytime sleepiness and sleep quality on the relationship between social media use and suicidal ideation. LIMITATIONS Causality could not be explored by cross-sectional studies, and future cohort studies are needed. CONCLUSIONS There was a chain-mediated effect between daytime sleepiness and sleep quality in the relationship between social media use and suicidal ideation. Therefore, it is recommended that students reduce their use of social media to improve their sleep quality and mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Bin Ma
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Zi-Ang Zheng
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Zhi-Ying Yao
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Xiao-Mei Xu
- Student Counseling Center of Shandong University, Jinan 250100, China.
| | - Xiu-Yan Zhou
- Student Mental Health Education Center, Shandong Jianzhu University, Jinan 250101, China.
| | - Chang-Gui Kou
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
| | - Bin Yao
- Student Mental Health Education and Counseling Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China.
| | - Wen-Jun Sun
- Student Work Office, College of Textile and Garment, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, Shandong Province, China.
| | - Ran Li
- Center of Students' mental health and consultation, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng 25200, China
| | - Xiao-Jie Gong
- Department of Sociology, School of Political Science and Law, University of Jinan, Jinan 250022, China.
| | - Li-Jie Gao
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China.
| | - Cun-Xian Jia
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China.
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Lin Q, Wu J, Shen Z. Intergenerational transmission of trait anxiety: Insights from different parenting styles using the actor-partner interdependence model. Acta Psychol (Amst) 2025; 254:104838. [PMID: 39999737 DOI: 10.1016/j.actpsy.2025.104838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2024] [Revised: 02/14/2025] [Accepted: 02/18/2025] [Indexed: 02/27/2025] Open
Abstract
Trait anxiety is a consistent individual characteristic that significantly influences the development and manifestation of anxiety. This study collected 311 parent-child paired questionnaires and utilized the actor-partner interdependence model (APIM) to examine the relationship between parental trait anxiety, parenting styles, and the transmission of anxiety within families. The study revealed an intergenerational transmission of trait anxiety from parents to children, with maternal protection serving as a partial mediator between maternal and child trait anxiety. Furthermore, paternal trait anxiety levels are not associated with his parenting style toward his children, but are associated with maternal parenting style. Conversely, Maternal trait anxiety levels are associated with both her own parenting style and paternal parenting style. These findings deepen our understanding of the mechanisms of trait anxiety transmission within families and provide theoretical and practical contributions to promoting family mental health, optimizing parenting styles, and enhancing gender equality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiaoming Lin
- Jing Hengyi School of Education, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, PR China; School of Arts and Child Education, Yango University, Fuzhou, Fujian, PR China
| | - Jianfen Wu
- Jing Hengyi School of Education, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, PR China; Zhejiang Philosophy and Social Science Laboratory for Research in Early Development and Childcare, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, PR China.
| | - Zifeng Shen
- School of Arts and Child Education, Yango University, Fuzhou, Fujian, PR China
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Tong X, Luo R, Hu X, Zhou D, An D. Role of childhood trauma in psychogenic non-epileptic seizures: a report from China. ACTA EPILEPTOLOGICA 2025; 7:4. [PMID: 40217554 PMCID: PMC11960396 DOI: 10.1186/s42494-024-00180-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 08/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2025] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To investigate the prevalence, risk factors, and impacts of childhood trauma in Chinese patients with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) compared to the healthy population. METHODS Patients with PNES and sex- and age-matched healthy controls were recruited. All the participants were interviewed to collect demographics, information of childhood environment, and clinical characteristics. Each participant completed the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire-Short Form (CTQ-SF), the Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES), and the Symptom Checklist-90 (SCL-90). Factors associated with childhood trauma, psychiatric symptoms, and clinical features of PNES were analyzed. RESULTS A total of 35 PNES patients and 34 controls were included in this study. Compared with the controls, the PNES patients reported a higher rate of childhood trauma and more severe psychiatric symptoms. In the PNES patients, early separation from parents was related to more types of childhood trauma and emotional neglect (EN); older age and rural residence during childhood were related to sexual abuse (SA). Moreover, childhood SA and trauma accumulation were correlated with the present psychiatric symptoms. Childhood trauma and rural residence were associated with dissociative symptoms. Separation from parents predicted an earlier PNES onset, whereas childhood SA predicted a later onset. More severe dissociative symptoms were associated with higher seizure frequency. CONCLUSIONS Childhood trauma is related to the development of PNES and the compromised mental health in PNES patients. This highlights the importance of child protection for preventing psychiatric disorders such as PNES.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Tong
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37 Guoxue Road, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
- Department of Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, Sichuan University, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Rong Luo
- Department of Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, Sichuan University, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Xiao Hu
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, Sichuan University, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Dong Zhou
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37 Guoxue Road, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
| | - Dongmei An
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37 Guoxue Road, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
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Wang Y, Wang H. Mediating effects of artificial intelligence on the relationship between academic engagement and mental health among Chinese college students. Front Psychol 2024; 15:1477470. [PMID: 39575341 PMCID: PMC11578736 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1477470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2024] [Accepted: 10/16/2024] [Indexed: 11/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Academic engagement of Chinese college students has received increasing research attention due to its impact on Students' Mental health and wellbeing. The emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies marked the beginning of a new era in education, offering innovative tools and approaches to enhance learning. Still, it can be viewed from positive and negative perspectives. This study utilizes the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) as a theoretical framework to analyze the mediating role of students' attitudes toward AI, perceived social norms, perceived behavioral control, and their intention to use AI technologies in the relationships between Students' academic engagement and Mental health. Methods The study involved a total of 2,423 Chinese college students with a mean age of approximately 20.53 ± 1.51 years. The survey was conducted through Questionnaire Star, using a secure website designed specifically for the study. The Hayes' PROCESS Macro (Version 4.2) Model 80 with SPSS 29.0, a multivariate regression analysis with a chain mediation model that allows for multiple mediators to be tested sequentially, has been used. The statistical test explored the direct and indirect effects of students' engagement (X) on mental health (Y) through a series of mediators: attitude toward AI (M1), subjective norm (M2), perceived behavioral control over AI use (M3), and AI use behavioral intention (M4). Results The direct positive relationship between engagement and mental health (β = 0.0575; p < 0.05), as well as identifying key mediating factors such as perceived behavioral control (β = 0.1039; p < 0.05) and AI use of behavioral intention (β = 0.0672; p < 0.05), highlights the potential of AI tools in enhancing students' well-being. However, the non-significant mediating effects of attitude toward AI (β = 0.0135), and subjective norms (β = -0.0005), suggest that more research is needed to understand the nuances of these relationships fully. Discussion Overall, the study contributes to the growing body of literature on the role of AI in education and offers practical implications for improving mental health support in academic settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yalin Wang
- Department of Marxism, Zhoukou Vocational and Technical College, Zhoukou, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Plant Protection, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
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Wang Y, He P. The Effects of College Education on Depressive Symptoms: An Instrument Variable Approach. Depress Anxiety 2024; 2024:4110906. [PMID: 40226726 PMCID: PMC11919102 DOI: 10.1155/2024/4110906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2025] Open
Abstract
Introduction The acquisition of a college education is typically indicative of a resource advantage. However, in recent years, college graduates have faced increasing mental health related issues. The health advantages derived from this resource advantage have become increasingly less pronounced. This study aims to examine the effects of college education on depressive symptoms. Materials and Methods We used data from China Family Panel Studies (CFPS), and combined this dataset with Chinese Education Examination Yearbook. We took advantage of variations in educational attainment, which was generated by college expansion policy, and adopted instrumental variables (IV) approach to identify the causal relationship. Results Our findings indicated that college education did not have a causal effect on promoting mental health. The results were supported by the fact that they held within each subgroup. Notably, our limited evidence suggested that college expansion policy promoted equity in educational access. Conclusion This study provided new and valuable evidence of education-induced health inequalities from the top of the education distribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanshang Wang
- School of Public Health, Peking University, 38 Xue Yuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100191, China
- China Center for Health Development Studies, Peking University, 38 Xue Yuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Ping He
- China Center for Health Development Studies, Peking University, 38 Xue Yuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100191, China
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Gao X, Li X, Zhang F. Future Self-Continuity Predicts Health-Promoting Behaviors of Chinese Rural College Students: Evidence from Mental Imagery Intervention. THE JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY 2024; 158:179-199. [PMID: 38181206 DOI: 10.1080/00223980.2023.2279532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this research is to investigate the prediction effect of future self-continuity (FSC) on health-promoting behaviors (Health Responsibility, Physical Activity, and Nutritional Habits) and the impact of urban-rural differences in Chinese college students, further verifying the effect of mental imagery practice on enhancing FSC and promoting health-promoting behaviors among students from rural areas. Study 1 used the Future Self-Continuity Questionnaire and a sub-scale of the Health Promotion Lifestyle Profile-II to examine the relationship between FSC and health-promoting behaviors among 788 college students (430 from rural areas and others from urban areas). Study 2 was designed to examine the impact of intervention on FSC and health-promoting behaviors among Chinese rural students. The intervention activities lasting 4 wk. 162 freshmen were randomly divided into intervention or control groups to practice the mental imagery about the future self or meditation in the present once a week. FSC and health-promoting behaviors were tested for 3 times. The results demonstrated that: (1) Rural students had lower scores in FSC and health-promoting behaviors than urban students; (2) Urban-rural differences of students moderated the effect of FSC on health-promoting behaviors; (3) The mental imagery practiced increased FSC; and (4) FSC played a complete mediating role in the effect of condition (intervention or not) on health-promoting behaviors for rural college students. Overall, these findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the relationship between FSC and health-promoting behaviors, and suggest that mental imagery practice can increase Chinese rural college students' health-promoting behaviors by enhancing their FSC.
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Yang S, Zhu X, Li W, Zhao H. Associations between teacher-student relationship and externalizing problem behaviors among Chinese rural adolescent. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1255596. [PMID: 38023020 PMCID: PMC10652406 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1255596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The primary objective of this study is to present a fresh perspective on the correlation between teacher-student relationships and externalizing problem behaviors among adolescents. While previous research has examined this connection, there is still an insufficient understanding of the underlying mechanisms. Moreover, the crucial role of peer relationships, mental health, and parental knowledge has been overlooked. In this study, a total of 6,919 Chinese rural adolescents aged 13-19 years participated by completing an anonymous self-report questionnaire. The results show that: (1) teacher-student relationship has a protective effect against the development of externalizing problem behaviors; (2) peer relationship and mental health both have a mediating role in the relationship between teacher-student relationship and externalizing problem behaviors; (3) teacher-student relationship can indirectly affect externalizing problem behaviors through the chain mediation of peer relationship and mental health; (4) parental knowledge plays a moderating role between the teacher-student relationship and externalizing problem behaviors. As the level of parental knowledge increases among rural adolescents, the impact of the teacher-student relationship on externalizing problem behaviors becomes more pronounced; and (5) the impact of teacher-student relationship on externalizing problem behaviors has no significant gender differences. Given the study's empirical outcomes, we discuss potential explanations and advocate for a comprehensive pedagogical approach to mitigate rural adolescent externalizing behaviors. This entails nurturing teacher-student relations, fostering inclusive peer environments, emphasizing mental health literacy, and synergizing with caregivers for a holistic home-school intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuping Yang
- School of Education, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Xingchen Zhu
- College of Psychology, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Wencan Li
- School of Education, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Haohan Zhao
- School of Chinese Language and Literature, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
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Yang Y, Zhang Z, Liu J, Cao H. Interactive effects of sleep and physical activity on depression among rural university students in China. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1240856. [PMID: 37842696 PMCID: PMC10569218 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1240856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Decreased sleep quality and physical activity among university students have become important concerns, while depressive symptoms are on the rise, especially in rural areas. Previous studies have confirmed the association between sleep quality and physical activity and depressive symptoms, but the effect of their interaction on depressive symptoms has been less studied. For this reason, the present study analyzed the interaction between sleep quality and physical activity on depressive symptoms to provide reference and assistance for mental health promotion and intervention for university students in rural areas of China. Methods In this study, we investigated sleep quality, physical activity, and depressive symptoms in 11,423 university students in rural areas of China. The association of sleep quality and physical activity with depressive symptoms was analyzed by using univariate analysis and logistic regression analysis. And further analyzed the association between the interaction effect of sleep quality and physical activity and depressive symptoms. Results The proportion of university students with depressive symptoms in rural China was 33.3%, with a higher proportion of girls students (36.7%) having depressive symptoms than boys students (28.8%). Logistic regression analysis of the interaction between sleep quality and physical activity and depressive symptoms in university students showed that university students with poor sleep quality and MVPA>60 min/d (OR = 4.40,95% CI: 3.75-5.05) had the highest risk of depressive symptoms (p < 0.001). University students with moderate sleep quality and MVPA of 30-60 min/d (OR = 1.18, 95% CI: 0.75-1.61) had the lowest risk of depressive symptoms (p < 0.001). Moreover, there was no gender difference in this result. Conclusion The prevalence of depressive symptoms was higher among university students in rural areas of China. There was an interaction between sleep quality and MVPA on depressive symptoms, maintaining a good quality of sleep and an appropriate length of MVPA has a contributory effect on mental health, and the same trend was found for both boys and girls students. It is recommended that university students in rural areas of China should first maintain proper sleep quality while maintaining 30-60 min of MVPA per day, which may reduce the risk of depressive symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Yang
- Physical Education Institute, Huanghuai University, Zhumadian, China
| | - Zhen Zhang
- Physical Education Institute, Huanghuai University, Zhumadian, China
| | - Jia Liu
- Physical Education Institute, Huanghuai University, Zhumadian, China
| | - Hongmin Cao
- School of Physical Education, Chizhou University, Chizhou, China
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Mao XL, Chen HM. Investigation of contemporary college students' mental health status and construction of a risk prediction model. World J Psychiatry 2023; 13:573-582. [PMID: 37701543 PMCID: PMC10494769 DOI: 10.5498/wjp.v13.i8.573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Due to academic pressure, social relations, and the change of adapting to independent life, college students are under high levels of pressure. Therefore, it is very important to study the mental health problems of college students. Developing a predictive model that can detect early warning signals of college students' mental health risks can help support early intervention and improve overall well-being. AIM To investigate college students' present psychological well-being, identify the contributing factors to its decline, and construct a predictive nomogram model. METHODS We analyzed the psychological health status of 40874 university students in selected universities in Hubei Province, China from March 1 to 15, 2022, using online questionnaires and random sampling. Factors influencing their mental health were also analyzed using the logistic regression approach, and R4.2.3 software was employed to develop a nomogram model for risk prediction. RESULTS We randomly selected 918 valid data and found that 11.3% of college students had psychological problems. The results of the general data survey showed that the mental health problems of doctoral students were more prominent than those of junior college students, and the mental health of students from rural areas was more likely to be abnormal than that of urban students. In addition, students who had experienced significant life events and divorced parents were more likely to have an abnormal status. The abnormal group exhibited significantly higher Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 scores than the healthy group, with these differences being statistically significant (P < 0.05). The nomogram prediction model drawn by multivariate analysis included six predictors: The place of origin, whether they were single children, whether there were significant life events, parents' marital status, regular exercise, intimate friends, and the PHQ-9 score. The training set demonstrated an area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC) of 0.972 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.947-0.997], a specificity of 0.888 and a sensitivity of 0.972. Similarly, the validation set had a ROC AUC of 0.979 (95%CI: 0.955-1.000), with a specificity of 0.942 and a sensitivity of 0.939. The H-L deviation test result was χ2 = 32.476, P = 0.000007, suggesting that the model calibration was good. CONCLUSION In this study, nearly 11.3% of contemporary college students had psychological problems, the risk factors include students from rural areas, divorced parents, non-single children, infrequent exercise, and significant life events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Li Mao
- School of Health and Nursing, Wuchang University of Technology, Wuhan 430223, Hubei Province, China
| | - Hong-Mei Chen
- School of Health and Nursing, Wuchang University of Technology, Wuhan 430223, Hubei Province, China
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Kasturi S, Oguoma VM, Grant JB, Niyonsenga T, Mohanty I. Prevalence Rates of Depression and Anxiety among Young Rural and Urban Australians: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:800. [PMID: 36613122 PMCID: PMC9819515 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20010800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Globally, depression and anxiety are major public health concerns with onset during adolescence. While rural Australia experiences overall lower health outcomes, variation in mental health prevalence rates between rural and urban Australia is unclear. The aim of this paper was to estimate the pooled prevalence rates for depression and anxiety among young Australians aged between 10 and 24 years. Selected studies from a systematic literature search were assessed for risk of bias. Random effects model using DerSimonian and Laird method with Freeman-Tukey Double Arcsine Transformation was fitted. Sensitivity analyses were performed. Prevalence estimates were stratified by region and disorder. The overall pooled prevalence of depression and anxiety was 25.3% (95% CI, 19.9-31.0%). In subgroup analysis, anxiety prevalence was 29.9% (95% CI, 21.6-39.0%); depression: 21.3% (95% CI, 14.9-28.5%); and depression or anxiety: 27.2% (95% CI, 20.3-34.6%). Depression and anxiety prevalence were higher in urban 26.1% (95% CI, 17.3-35.9%) compared to rural areas 24.9% (95% CI, 17.5-33%), although the difference was not statistically significant. The heterogeneity was high with an I2 score of 95.8%. There is need for further research on healthcare access, mental health literacy and help-seeking attitude in Australia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sushmitha Kasturi
- Health Research Institute, University of Canberra, Canberra, ACT 2617, Australia
| | - Victor M. Oguoma
- Health Research Institute, University of Canberra, Canberra, ACT 2617, Australia
- Poche Centre for Indigenous Health, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4066, Australia
| | - Janie Busby Grant
- Centre for Applied Psychology, University of Canberra, Canberra, ACT 2617, Australia
| | - Theo Niyonsenga
- Health Research Institute, University of Canberra, Canberra, ACT 2617, Australia
| | - Itismita Mohanty
- Health Research Institute, University of Canberra, Canberra, ACT 2617, Australia
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Wang C, Yan S, Jiang H, Guo Y, Gan Y, Lv C, Lu Z. Socio-demographic characteristics, lifestyles, social support quality and mental health in college students: a cross-sectional study. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:1583. [PMID: 35987998 PMCID: PMC9392273 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-14002-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Mental health problems are important public health issues among college students and are associated with various social factors. However, these influencing factors were scarcely summarized in Chinese college students comprehensively. This study aims to assess the associations between socio-demographic characteristics, lifestyles, social support quality (SSQ) and mental health among Chinese college students .
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted in Wuhan, China, from October 2017 to February 2018. College students from 18 colleges or universities were randomly recruited using multi-stage cluster sampling method. The Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support scale and 12-items General Health Questionnaire were used to estimate students’ SSQ and mental health statuses, respectively. Logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the associations between socio-demographic characteristics, lifestyles, SSQ and mental health problems.
Results
A total of 10,676 college students were included. Among them, 21.4% were identified as having possible mental health problems. Students being a female, aged 18–22 years old, whose mother held college degrees and above, and drinking alcohol were more likely to have mental health problems (P < 0.05). Contrarily, having general or higher household economic levels, work-rest regularly, and sleeping ≥ 7 h were preventive factors (P < 0.05). Especially, a decreasing trend in the risk of having mental health problems with the improvement of SSQ was identified.
Conclusion
Besides socio-demographic and lifestyle factors, social support is a critical factor for mental health among college students. Improving SSQ, especially which from the family, could be an effective method to prevent mental health problems among college students.
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Luo L. The practice of psychological well-being education model for poor university students from the perspective of positive psychology. Front Psychol 2022; 13:951668. [PMID: 35978785 PMCID: PMC9376323 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.951668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Poor university students are a special group. Social development provides many positive factors for poor university students' personality and psychological development, but negative factors are also accompanied by them, which affect the psychological health of poor university students. University students are in a period of rapid physical and mental development, and it is an important issue that colleges and universities need to solve psychological well-being education. We hope to find out the aspects that can be studied in the irregularity of various factors that affect college students' mental health. BP neural network is a typical model of artificial neural network. Based on the BP algorithm and the fuzzy comprehensive evaluation of the psychological well-being prediction system for poor university students, this paper systematically summarizes the concept of psychological well-being, the factors that affect psychological well-being, and the related research done by predecessors on psychological well-being. Using the international psychological well-being scale SCL-90 to comprehensively consider the psychological well-being status of poor university students and select the optimized BP algorithm to establish a psychological well-being prediction model, and implement it and compare it with other models to reflect its superiority. Data were collected and analyzed by means of a questionnaire. The regression model was used to analyze the relationship between mindfulness, rumination and psychological well-being. The mediation index fitted by the model reached 0.9. The model can reflect the real situation of the data, that is, rumination plays a partial mediating role in the effect of mindfulness on psychological well-being. The introduction of this psychological prediction model into the psychological well-being education of poor university students not only helps to improve the educational concept and expand the educational approach, but also helps to achieve the goal of psychological well-being education for poor university students, thereby promoting the improvement of the psychological quality of poor university students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Luo
- Students’ Affairs Department, Henan Polytechnic University, Jiaozuo, China
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14
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Gavurova B, Ivankova V, Rigelsky M, Mudarri T, Miovsky M. Somatic Symptoms, Anxiety, and Depression Among College Students in the Czech Republic and Slovakia: A Cross-Sectional Study. Front Public Health 2022; 10:859107. [PMID: 35359763 PMCID: PMC8961809 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.859107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Studying in college can be a challenging time for many students, which can affect their mental health. In addition to academic pressure and stressful tasks, another aggravating factor in student life is the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The aim of the study was to examine the prevalence of anxiety, depression, and somatic symptoms in Czech and Slovak college students during the COVID-19 pandemic and to evaluate possible socio-demographic determinants of mental health problems. A total of 3,099 respondents participated in this cross-sectional study (Czech Republic: 1,422, Slovakia: 1,677). The analyzes included the Patient Health Questionnaire for somatic symptoms (PHQ-15), the Generalized Anxiety Disorder instrument (GAD-7), and the Patient Health Questionnaire for depression (PHQ-9). Socio-demographic factors were gender, age, family structure, marital status, form of study, degree of study, year of study, field of study, distance between home and college, residence, and housing during the semester. Among Czech students, prevalence of somatic complaints, anxiety and depression was 72.2, 40.3, and 52%, respectively. Among Slovak students, prevalence of somatic complaints, anxiety and depression was 69.5, 34.6, and 47%, respectively. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the most severe mental health problems were identified in a non-negligible part of the sample (Czech Republic: PHQ-15 = 10.1%, GAD-7 = 4.9%, PHQ-9 = 3.4%; Slovakia: PHQ-15 = 7.4%, GAD-7 = 3.5%, PHQ-9 = 2.7%). Regarding the differences between the analyzed countries, a significantly higher score in somatic symptoms, anxiety, and depression was identified in the Czech Republic. Significant differences in mental disorders were found in most socio-demographic characteristics. The main results of the logistic regression analysis revealed that risk factors for mental health disorders in Czech and Slovak students were female gender, younger age, third degree of study, and study of Informatics, Mathematics, Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). Especially in the case of these high-risk groups of students, public policies should consider a response to impending problems. The findings are an appeal for a proactive approach to improving the mental health of students and for the implementation of effective prevention programs, which are more than necessary in the Czech and Slovak college environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beata Gavurova
- Department of Addictology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General Teaching Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czechia
| | - Viera Ivankova
- Faculty of Mining, Ecology, Process Control and Geotechnologies, Institute of Earth Resources, Technical University of Košice, Košice, Slovakia
| | - Martin Rigelsky
- Department of Marketing and International Trade, Faculty of Management and Business, University of Prešov, Prešov, Slovakia
| | - Tawfik Mudarri
- Faculty of Mining, Ecology, Process Control and Geotechnologies, Institute of Earth Resources, Technical University of Košice, Košice, Slovakia
| | - Michal Miovsky
- Department of Addictology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General Teaching Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czechia
- *Correspondence: Michal Miovsky
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15
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Lei X, Liu C, Jiang H. Mental health of college students and associated factors in Hubei of China. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0254183. [PMID: 34214107 PMCID: PMC8253420 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0254183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Although many studies have analyzed mental health problems in college students in China, the associations of mental health with individual and family circumstances, academic performance, and social support were rarely discussed. Objectives The study aimed to determine the mental health status and its associated factors among college students in China. Methods An online survey was conducted on 300 students selected through a cluster sampling strategy in a university in Hubei, China, tapping into sociodemographic characteristics of the participants, their mental health status measured by the modified Symptom Checklist-90 (SCL-90), and social support measured by the Social Support Rating Scale. Multivariate linear regression models were established to identify predictors of the SCL-90 scores. Results Mental health disorders were found in 8% of the respondents, with obsessive compulsive, interpersonal sensitivity and depression as the top three reported problems. Compared with the national population norms of university students in 2014, our study participants had higher scores in SCL-90. There were statistically significant difference in the Global Severity index (GSI) and all nine subscales scores (p<0.05). Poorer self-rated health, higher study pressure, and lower social support were significant predictors of higher SCL-90 scores (p<0.05) after adjustment for variations in other variables. Conclusions College students in Hubei, China may experience a range of different mental health problems, which are associated with their individual, study, and social circumstances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaosheng Lei
- School of Management, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, P. R. China
- * E-mail: (XL); (CL); (HJ)
| | - Chaojie Liu
- Department of Public Health, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
- * E-mail: (XL); (CL); (HJ)
| | - Heng Jiang
- Centre for Alcohol Policy Research, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- * E-mail: (XL); (CL); (HJ)
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16
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Psychological flexibility profiles, college adjustment, and subjective well-being among college students in China: A latent profile analysis. JOURNAL OF CONTEXTUAL BEHAVIORAL SCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcbs.2021.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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17
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Lew B, Kõlves K, Osman A, Abu Talib M, Ibrahim N, Siau CS, Chan CMH. Suicidality among Chinese college students: A cross-sectional study across seven provinces. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0237329. [PMID: 32822365 PMCID: PMC7444487 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0237329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although the suicide rate in China has decreased over the past 20 years, there have been reports that the younger age group has been experiencing an increased incidence of completed suicide. Given that undergraduate groups are at higher risks of suicidality, it is important to monitor and screen for risk factors for suicidal ideation and behaviors to ensure their well-being. OBJECTIVE To examine the risk and protective factors contributing to suicidality among undergraduate college students in seven provinces in China. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional study involving 13,387 college students from seven universities in Ningxia, Shandong, Shanghai, Jilin, Qinghai, Shaanxi, and Xinjiang. Data were collected using self-report questionnaires. RESULTS Higher scores in the psychological strain, depression, anxiety, stress, and psychache (psychological risk factors for suicidality) and lower scores in self-esteem and purpose in life (psychological protective factors against suicidality) were associated with increased suicidality among undergraduate students in China. Demographic factors which were associated with higher risks of suicidality were female gender, younger age, bad academic results, were an only child, non-participation in school associations, and had an urban household registration. Perceived good health was protective against suicidality. CONCLUSIONS Knowing the common risk and protective factors for suicidality among Chinese undergraduate students is useful in developing interventions targeted at this population and to guide public health policies on suicide in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bob Lew
- Department of Social Psychology, Faculty of Human Ecology, Putra University of Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Kairi Kõlves
- Australian Institute for Suicide Research and Prevention, Griffith University, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Suicide Prevention, Griffith University, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Augustine Osman
- Department of Psychology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas United States of America
| | - Mansor Abu Talib
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, Putra University of Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Norhayati Ibrahim
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Ching Sin Siau
- Faculty of Social Sciences and Liberal Arts, UCSI University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Caryn Mei Hsien Chan
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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18
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Tang W, Dai Q. Depressive symptoms among first-year Chinese undergraduates: The roles of socio-demographics, coping style, and social support. Psychiatry Res 2018; 270:89-96. [PMID: 30245381 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2018.09.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2017] [Revised: 06/15/2018] [Accepted: 09/14/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence of depressive symptoms among Chinese university students seems to be increasing. However, little research has been conducted in order to examine whether and how socioeconomic factors, coping style and social support affect depressive symptoms among university freshmen. The present study aimed to explore these effects on a sample of freshmen from single- and multi-child households in urban and rural environments. A total of 2,563 university freshmen (883 women, 1,680 men; mean age, 18.27 yr) from three universities in China completed a demographic questionnaire, Patient Health Questionnaire-9, Social Support Rating Scale, and Coping Style Questionnaire. Pearson correlation coefficients suggested that gender and place of origin affected students' coping styles, social support, and depression. Depression was negatively associated with problem-solving and help-seeking, but positively associated with self-blaming, fantasizing, avoidance, and rationalization. Logistic regression showed that depression was predicted by engaging in self-blame and fantasizing, being female, coming from a rural area, being an only child, lacking subjective and social support, having low skills at problem-solving and help-seeking. These findings may help psychological service providers identify first-year students at risk of depressive symptoms and provide them with systematic, gender-specific interventions that pay specific attention to self-blaming and fantasizing coping style.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanjie Tang
- Sichuan University, No.24 South Section 1, Yihuan Road, chengdu, sichuan 610065, China
| | - Qian Dai
- Sichuan University, No.24 South Section 1, Yihuan Road, chengdu, sichuan 610065, China.
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19
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A Comparative Study of Nutritional Status, Knowledge Attitude and Practices (KAP) and Dietary Intake between International and Chinese Students in Nanjing, China. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:ijerph15091910. [PMID: 30177588 PMCID: PMC6165259 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15091910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2018] [Revised: 08/13/2018] [Accepted: 08/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
University students tend to have poor dietary practices, which ultimately affect their nutritional status. International students are becoming more prevalent in China. The current study aimed to compare the nutritional status, knowledge attitude and practices (KAP) and dietary intake between international and Chinese students in China. A comparative study was conducted in undergraduate students of Nanjing Medical University aged 17–31 years including 308 international and 393 Chinese students. Data was collected by self-administered questionnaire. Body composition was detected by bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). Student t-test and chi square test were used for comparison. Linear regressions were used for association of nutritional status with determinants. The prevalence of overweight and obesity in international student was higher than Chinese students. International male and female students were having significantly (p < 0.05) high BMI and percent body fats than Chinese male and female students. Nutritional KAP scores of Chinese students was significantly (p < 0.05) higher than international students. As for diet consumption, daily milk consumption was high in international students while daily egg and weekly fish and meat consumption were found more in Chinese students. Fast foods and carbonated drinks weekly consumption was significantly (p < 0.001) high in international students. After adjusted for age, gender, education, sleeping duration and physical exercise, the inverse association of nutritional KAP with BMI remained significant. Our data indicate that international students had more percent body fats, less nutritional KAP scores and unhealthy dietary habits than Chinese students. Proper nutrition education and guidance for improving good habits and nutritional status is suggested for international students.
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