%0 Journal Article
%T Psychological Impact and Coping Strategies of Dental Students during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Survey
%A Trudee Hoyte
%A Anne Kowlessar
%A Kevin Henry
%A Adilah Mahbir
%A Anil Ali
%A Tichard Manwah
%J Creative Education
%P 1926-1938
%@ 2151-4771
%D 2021
%I Scientific Research Publishing
%R 10.4236/ce.2021.128147
%X Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the delivery of the curriculum of dental schools. The psychological impact and coping strategies of dental students in Trinidad and Tobago are a matter of concern. In this study, dental students were asked to evaluate their mental health and coping strategies regarding COVID-19. Methods: A survey was conducted using an online platform. Demographic data was collected and the psychological impact was assessed. Participants were also questioned on their coping strategies. Descriptive statistics, Chi-square test, Mann-Whitney test and a logistic regression were performed. Results: A total of 108 out of 137 students participated. Their mean age was 22.96 years. High levels of stress (59.26%), anxiety(64.81%) and depression (76.85%) were observed among dental students. Nationality and gender played a significant role in the students¡¯ mental health scores. Female students were more likely to experience stress, anxiety and depression than males (exp[¦Â] = -0.38, -0.21, and -2.31). There were various coping mechanisms deployed by dental students. Conclusion: The elevated levels of stress, anxiety and depression in these dental students emphasize the need for psychological intervention.
%K Depression
%K Anxiety
%K Stress
%K Dental Students
%K DASS-21 Scale
%K Trinidad and Tobago
%K COVID-19 Pandemic
%U http://www.scirp.org/journal/PaperInformation.aspx?PaperID=111367