Psychosocial Correlates of Depression and Anxiety Among Undergraduate Health Professional Students in Bhutan: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: In Bhutan, limited research examines family systems, substance use and mental health among nursing and allied health students. This study explored associations between depressive symptoms, parental relationships, self-belief and substance use. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey of 289 KGUMSB undergraduate students assessed demographics, family support, mental health symptoms, substance use, and self-belief using structured 10-point Likert-scale measures. Results: Feelings of sadness were associated with lower self-belief (p equals to .020). Substance use (alcohol and cannabis) was more prevalent among male students. Parental relationship satisfaction was linked to self-belief (see self-belief results below) but not substance use or mental health symptoms (p less than .001, n^2_p equals to .120). Regression models were not significant, explaining limited variance in outcomes (p equals to .078). Conclusions: The findings suggest sadness is associated with lower self-belief. As a cross sectional study, results indicate associations, not causation. Early support for sadness may strengthen mental well-being and resilience among Bhutan’s future healthcare professionals.