Psychological distress among dentistry students: A cross-sectional study on depression, anxiety, and stress using the DASS-21 Scale

This study aimed to evaluate the levels of depression, anxiety, and stress among dentistry students and assess how these psychological states vary based on gender, academic year, income status, psychological support status, and living arrangements. We conducted a cross-sectional investigation among dental students enrolled in all academic years at the Faculty of Dentistry, Harran University in Sanliurfa, Turkey. Data were collected through an online questionnaire comprising 2 parts: sociodemographic information (9 questions) and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21 items. The responses were analyzed using non-parametric tests due to non-normal distribution of the data. A total of 257 students participated (58.4% female; mean age group 21-25). The results of the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21 items revealed that female students and students in higher academic years reported substantial higher levels of stress, anxiety, and depression (P < .05). Students not receiving psychological support had elevated depression and stress levels compared to those who did. Living in private dormitories or individual housing was associated with higher stress scores. K-means clustering identified 4 psychological risk profiles, with Cluster 3 (predominantly senior and female students) representing the highest risk for psychological distress. Dental education, particularly in upper academic years, is associated with increased psychological burden. These findings underscore the necessity for mental health support services tailored to at-risk student groups.