Month/Year of Graduation
5-2026
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science (B.S.)
Department
Pre-Health
First Advisor
Ernest T. Chivero, Ph.D.
Abstract
Mental health concerns are well-documented among physicians and medical or nursing students, yet undergraduate pre-health students may also experience significant stress. The undergraduate years are a critical period when academic demands and life transitions may contribute to anxiety. This study assessed anxiety symptoms among pre-health undergraduate students at the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) using a Qualtrics survey. The survey evaluated anxiety levels, coping strategies, and potential correlations with demographics and academic or personal stressors. Anxiety was measured using the General Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) questionnaire with categories of minimal (0–4), mild (5–9), moderate (10–14), and severe (15–21). Results indicated that 6% fell into the minimal category, 40% in mild, 27% in moderate, and 28% in severe anxiety, with a mean GAD-7 score of 10.75 ± 0.54. The highest self-reported stressors were GPA pressure, pressure to succeed, course load, and lack of time for self-care. Sleep duration (p = 0.00003), hours spent on academic work (p = 0.0244), and financial stress (p = 0.0023) correlated with GAD-7 scores. Some students reported coping through professional support, goal-setting, keeping busy, self-care, and social networks. Open-ended responses highlighted a need for guidance on searching for appropriate financial resources, how to access mental health services, and time management skills for sleep and self-care. These findings suggest a need to further emphasize mental health support, time management skills, and flexible curricula. Programs across campus may consider collaborating even further to support financial and mentorship services for students who need them most.
Recommended Citation
Chaudhari, Jiya, "Role of Academic Stressors in Prevalence and Severity of Anxiety-Like Symptoms in Pre-Health Students and Effective Coping Strategies" (2026). Theses/Capstones/Creative Projects. 385.
https://digitalcommons.unomaha.edu/university_honors_program/385