DefinePK

Abstract

This study investigated the prevalence of psychological distress, recreational drug use, and help-seeking behavior among 273 medical students from five institutions in Lahore, Pakistan. High levels of mental health issues were found using the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21) and a specially designed drug use questionnaire. Of the students, 41% reported moderate to severe depression, and 79.4% reported anxiety. Notable rates of recreational substance use included 5.8% reporting usage of alcohol or benzodiazepines, 10.1% using cannabis, and 28.8% smoking cigarettes. Due in large part to stigma, fear of being judged, and confidentiality issues, professional help-seeking remained low despite these concerning rates. These findings highlight the critical need for institutional initiatives to raise awareness of mental health issues, lessen stigma, and offer easily available support services to Pakistani medical students.