Factors associated with nursing students' mental health-related stigma: A multisite cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND

Mental health-related stigma remains a complex and pervasive issue globally. It not only inhibits individuals from seeking help but also influences the quality of healthcare they receive. Despite extensive research on mental health-related stigma, there is still limited understanding of factors influencing mental health-related stigma among nursing students.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to assess the level of mental health-related stigma among Chinese nursing students and investigate possible associated factors.

METHODS

Data were collected from the 2023 Psychology and Behavior Investigation of Chinese Residents (PBICR) survey. A total of 967 nursing students were included in the study. Multivariate stepwise linear regression analysis was conducted to examine the influencing factors of mental health stigma.

RESULTS

The mean mental health-related stigma score among nursing students was 15.31 ± 5.23 (range = 0-27). Perceived stress (β = 0.14, P = 0.001), self-efficacy (β = 0.22, P < 0.001), academic stage (β = 0.17, P < 0.001), depression (β = 0.15, P < 0.001), and adverse life events (β = 0.06, P = 0.044) were significantly associated with mental health-related stigma among nursing students (R = 0.147, adjusted R = 0.143, F = 33.214, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Nursing students in China exhibit a moderate level of mental health-related stigma, suggesting room for improvement. Perceived stress, self-efficacy, academic stage, depression, and adverse life events emerged as significant influencing factors for mental health-related stigma. These findings provide valuable insights for developing interventions to reduce mental health-related stigma among nursing students, ultimately enhancing their well-being and preparing them for becoming competent healthcare professionals in the future.