UNDERSTANDING THE BARRIERS FOR UNDERGRADUATE DENTAL STUDENTS IN SEEKING PROFESSIONAL COUNSELLING

Abstract

The goal of this study was to evaluate the Perception of dental undergraduates regarding need of psychological and psychosocial support throughout their undergraduate life. A total sample of 300 dental students participated from 3 private dental colleges of Lahore. A cross sectional study was done to evaluate their needs for psychological counseling. A questionnaire was made comprising of 15 questions regarding various aspects and perceptions of counseling to evaluate its need and outcomes. The data showed 62.2% of undergraduate dental students need counseling sessions and 84.4% believes that mentoring has high impact on dentist health and practice. Data showed 71.2% will attend if confidentiality is provided and 80.1% believes these sessions will be productive. Confidentiality in counseling sessions is the most important part as there is a reluctance seen for counseling because of lack of confidentiality.