Mental health of medical students belonging to sexual minorities: A focus on help-seeking behavior in an Italian multicenter survey
- Authors: Lo Moro G.; Leombruni P.; Bert F.; Siliquini R.; Corradi A.; Gualano M.R.; Olivero E.; Rossello P.; Barello S.; Acampora A.; Arzani D.; Agodi A.; Barchitta M.; Brunelli L.; Brusaferro S.; Celotto D.; Chironna M.; Loconsole D.; Baldo V.; Cocchio S.; Cofini V.; D'Onofrio S.; D'Errico M.M.; D'Errico M.; Marzuillo C.; Baccolini V.; Pasquarella C.; Di Fonzo D.; Pavia M.; Restivo V.; Casuccio A.
- Publication year: 2021
- Type: Articolo in rivista
- OA Link: http://hdl.handle.net/10447/540942
Abstract
The aim was to examine social, university, health-related differences among heterosexual and Sexual Minority Medical students (SM-Meds), and explore predictors of help-seeking behavior (i.e., current psychological support and hypothetical university counseling use). A multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted in Italy (2018). Questionnaires included socio-demographic items and Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II). Chi-squared tests and multivariable regressions adjusted for BDI-II score were performed (sample size = 2513). SM-Meds were 13.9%. SM-Meds with depressive symptoms were 40.5%. Both considering overall and non-depressed students, SM-Meds exercised less and had worst relationships with family and classmates. Psychological support was reported by 6.1% (SM-Meds: 12.8%) and hypothetical counseling use by 42.7% (SM-Meds: 47.1%). Multivariable models showed SM-Meds had significant higher likelihood of psychological support. Therefore, SM-Meds reported higher help-seeking behavior, lower physical activity and social support. Universities should promote more inclusive learning climate and activities to increase exercise, especially among SM-Meds.