Anxiety and mental health: revealing the hidden challenges in the path of health sciences students

• Main Author: Andrade, Rebeca Cristina Souza de
• Publication Date: 2024
• Other Authors: Amorim, Daniele de Oliveira Rodrigues, Fortes, Bárbara Elizabeth das Neves Alves, Queiroz, Henrique Monteiro de, Melo, Kamila de Sousa, Gonçalves, Gabriel Borges de Oliveira Câmera, Oliveira, Thais Ranielle Souza de
• Format: Article
• Language: por
• Source: Revista Ciências da Saúde Ceuma
• Download full: https://revcsaudeceuma.emnuvens.com.br/revista/article/view/28
• topic: Ansiedade; desempenho acadêmico; drogas; Anxiety; academic performance; drugs

Objective: To analyze the relationship between anxiety and academic performance in health-related courses and the potential impact of drug use in this context. Methods: This study is a narrative review covering the period from 2018 to 2023, including articles in Portuguese and English, obtained from the BVS, PubMed, and Scielo Brasil databases. Results: Eleven articles were selected. Four address factors associated with anxiety in the academic environment, five focus on the influence of drugs on academic performance, and two are dedicated to non-pharmacological interventions for anxiety treatment in health-related students. Conclusion: Anxiety is prevalent in women and has associated factors such as high study load, sleep disorders, and leisure, among others. Regarding drug use, some studies highlight negative effects on academic performance; however, one study concludes that there is no significant relationship. Concerning non-pharmacological interventions for anxiety treatment, studies identify limitations such as small sample sizes and short-term follow-up, indicating the need for more robust research on the subject. In summary, the relationship between drug use, anxiety, and academic performance is not a consensus in the literature. Further studies on this important topic are essential to develop effective action plans to improve the academic performance of health-related students.