Consumption Patterns of Psychotropic Drugs Among Veterinary Medicine Students at the Federal University of Santa Maria

Abstract

Highlights: Public health relevance—How does this work relate to a public health issue? This study documents the high prevalence of psychotropic drug use among veterinary medicine students, reflecting substantial levels of anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbance in the young adult population. It focuses on future veterinary professionals, a group already known to be at increased risk for mental health problems and suicide, highlighting the need for early identification and support during training. Public health significance—Why is this work of significance to public health? The study provides one of the first detailed profiles of psychotropic medication use among veterinary students in Brazil, identifying sex, sleep duration, and physical inactivity as key associated factors. By characterizing patterns of use, prescription sources, and treatment duration, the study generates evidence that can inform health promotion strategies within universities and health systems. Public health implications—What are the key implications or messages for practitioners, policy makers and/or researchers in public health? Universities and health services should strengthen mental health support for veterinary students, including routine psychological screening, accessible counseling, and guidance on safe, supervised psychotropic use to reduce self-medication. Policymakers and practitioners can use these findings to design interventions that promote physical activity and sleep hygiene, aiming to reduce psychological distress and the reliance on pharmacological coping strategies in this population. The rise in psychotropic drug use among students, particularly in Veterinary Medicine, correlates with high rates of mental disorders like depression and anxiety, often exacerbated by academic stress. Factors such as high academic demands, emotional exhaustion, and poor sleep quality contribute to the increased use of medications like antidepressants and anxiolytics. However, in Brazil, there is limited research on the profile and factors associated with this drug use among veterinary students. This study aims to assess the prevalence, patterns, and associated factors of psychotropic drug use at the Federal University of Santa Maria. A descriptive-correlational cross-sectional study was conducted using a survey covering sociodemographic data and psychotropic drug use. A total of 245 students participated in this study. The collected data included age, sex, semester, physical activity, sleep quality, drug use, family income, place of birth, and residence. In total, 36.7% of students reported using psychotropic medications during their undergraduate studies, with 77.1% being women and 22.9% men. Additionally, 45.6% reported insufficient sleep, defined as 4 to 6 h per day. Inactive students had a 94.5% higher likelihood of using psychotropic medications. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and benzodiazepines were the most reported drug classes. The findings highlight the emotional and academic burden of veterinary education, underscoring the need for institutional actions that prioritize student mental health.