ANXIOLYTICS AND ANTIDEPRESSANTS: CONSUMPTION AND FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH USE IN UNIVERSITY NURSING STUDENTS IN THE INTERIOR OF SÃO PAULO

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.1595192526041

• Palavras-chave: University students, anxiety, depression, psychotropic drugs, consumption.

• Keywords: University students, anxiety, depression, psychotropic drugs, consumption.

• Abstract:

  The mental health of university students, particularly those in the nursing course, is a relevant issue due to the high consumption of anxiolytics and antidepressants. These future health professionals face academic challenges, practical activities and interactions with patients that can lead to the development of disorders such as anxiety and depression. The initial use of psychotropic substances, such as benzodiazepines and antidepressants, can temporarily relieve symptoms, but when consumed inappropriately, can lead to abuse. The prescription of psychotropic drugs by various medical specialties without proper monitoring can result in inappropriate use of these drugs. This descriptive study applied a questionnaire with 10 closed questions to students from all periods of the Nursing course at the Eduvale College in Avaré, in the interior of São Paulo, with the aim of identifying and analyzing patterns of consumption of anxiolytics and antidepressants and the factors associated with their use among university students. The data was analyzed and organized in Microsoft Excel spreadsheets. The results showed that a significant proportion of students reported suffering from mental disorders such as anxiety and depression, with anxiety being prevalent in 48% of those interviewed. Of these, only 17% use psychotropic medication, often without specialized monitoring. This scenario highlights the need for psychological support and the implementation of awareness programs on the responsible use of psychotropic drugs in the university environment.