Date of Completion

2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy

Keywords

Mental Health, Perspectives, Support Systems and Interventions, Pharmacy Academic Institutions, Multiple Case Study

Abstract

Mental health has increasingly become a priority in higher education, particularly in health-allied programs such as pharmacy, where students face elevated levels of academic stress. This multiple case study aimed to explore the mental health challenges—specifically depression, anxiety, and stress—experienced by pharmacy students in Cavite and to examine the perspectives of key stakeholders, including students, academic pharmacists, and guidance counselors, on institutional support systems and interventions. Anchored on the Social Ecological Model, the study employed a qualitative research design involving DASS-21 screening, in-depth interviews, and document analysis across three private pharmacy academic institutions in Cavite. Findings revealed that stress, anxiety, and depression were the most common mental health issues, primarily influenced by home environment, academic workload, internal pressure, past experiences, and faculty behavior. While all institutions had support systems such as guidance counseling, mental health seminars, psychological assessments, and referral services, their effectiveness was limited by high counselor-to-student ratios, low visibility, stigmatization, and scheduling conflicts. Perspectives from pharmacy students, academic pharmacists, and guidance counselors highlighted the value of these services but also pointed to inconsistent implementation and limited faculty involvement. Academic pharmacists and guidance counselors were seen as key figures in student support, though their roles were constrained by institutional challenges. Document analysis further revealed gaps in mental health policy integration and awareness efforts. The findings may inform academic institutions, policymakers, and future researchers in developing targeted interventions and mental health programs tailored to the needs of pharmacy students in the Philippines.

First Advisor

Angeli Ann S. Rescober, RPh, LPT, MSPharm

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