Perceived Stress by Students in a Pharmacy Curriculum

This study evaluated stress levels experienced by students in a pharmacy curriculum. A survey was used to evaluate perceived levels of stress, factors that contribute to stress, and mechanisms used to cope with stress. Participants were first, second, and third year students enrolled in pharmacy school. Data were collected using an individual interview that consisted of both a demographic and stress questionnaire. The questionnaire included items to measure perceived stress levels and methods used to reduce stress, factors that contribute to stress, and level of support from family, friends, and faculty. Students rated stress to be average or above average and 70.5% reported using some form of active approach to stress reduction. However, the remaining reported no awareness of campus resources to help manage stress levels and many students offered only passive coping strategies, despite the fact that these students had two to four years of academic experience. Findings demonstrate that students may benefit from programs that teach effective coping strategies.