Mental health awareness and stigmatization: a cross-sectional study of knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions among medical students at a Philippine medical school

Jose Ronilo  G. Juangco,; Christine  R. Sy,

Mental health awareness and stigmatization: a cross-sectional study of knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions among medical students at a Philippine medical school

Christine R. Sy | Jose Ronilo G. Juangco

Abstract:

Introduction Mental health plays a crucial role in overall well-being, yet stigma and misconceptions persist, even among future healthcare professionals. This study assessed medical students’ knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions (KAP) regarding mental health and explored their association with sociodemographic characteristics. Methods We conducted an analytical cross-sectional study among 270 medical students at a private Philippine university from September to October 2023. Participants completed a validated questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, Spearman’s correlation, and odds ratios were calculated. Results Most respondents exhibited high knowledge (80.7%), positive attitudes (90.4%), and favorable perceptions (95.6%) toward mental health. Students who had not interacted with individuals with mental illness were 2.87 times more likely to display negative attitudes (OR = 2.87, 95% CI: 1.19–6.90, p = 0.015). Attitude and perception showed a moderate positive correlation (r = 0.409, p < 0.001), while knowledge and perception demonstrated a weak negative correlation (r = -0.129, p = 0.034). Conclusion These medical students generally possessed good knowledge, positive attitudes, and perceptions regarding mental health. Academic progression and real-life exposure positively influence attitudes, highlighting the need for experiential learning to reduce stigma and promote empathy in medical training.

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