Variáveis associadas ao uso de medicamentos psicotrópicos entre estudantes de uma universidade pública de Mato Grosso, Brasil

Abstract

The proposal of this work was part of a matrix study involving eighteen countries (including Brazil) and, in the state of Mato Grosso, aimed to evaluate the use of psychotropic medication by students, as well as the association with sociodemographic, academic, behavioral variables and mental health in this public. Method: A cross-sectional quantitative survey was carried out using an online questionnaire. Undergraduate and stricto sensu graduate students from all campuses of the Federal University of Mato Grosso. The sample for this research consisted of 524 stricto sensu undergraduate and graduate students from all campuses of the Federal University of Mato Grosso, with a median age of 22 years, most of whom were female (69.7%), heterosexual (68 .1 %), with medium/high subjective social status (82.4 %) and without a romantic relationship (54 %). The following instruments were applied through the online form (who integrated the form of matrix project): Sociodemographic and clinical data questionnaire; Mental Health Inventory (MHI-5); General Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7); and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). Relevant questions regarding the outcome (use of psychotropic medications) were selected for this study. Data from this study were analyzed descriptively and inferentially using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software, version 27.0. Results: The prevalence of psychotropic medication use in the sample of university students was 26.1%, of which 17.5% were not prescribed by a medical professional. The most used drug class was antidepressants (91 students pointed out the use), followed by natural medicines (38 appointments). Among the factors potentially associated with the use of psychotropic drugs are female gender, romantic relationship (especially living with someone), perception of academic performance (among graduate students) and previous diagnosis of mental or mood disorders (depression and anxiety). Conclusion: There was predominat female participation, suggesting women's concern about mental health and the perception of symptoms/traits of anxiety and depression. There was also emphasis on the association of romantic relationships and the use of psychotropic medications, which requires further studies to elucidate this mechanism as a risk or protective one. Antidepressants (SSRIs) are the most used by the target audience, which implies the importance of monitoring for the effectiveness and safety of the treatment. Another important aspect is subjective self-assessment regarding academic performance, especially in postgraduate studies, a phase with great responsibilities in a short space of time. The results of this study highlight the importance of research in mental health among university students, especially regarding variables associated with the use of psychotropic medications, which must be monitored by an interdisciplinary health team. At UFMT, these data can be important in developing university policies aimed at the health and quality of life of students, in addition to contributing to the strengthening of national and international partnerships involving Postgraduate Programs, leveraging scientific production in the area.