Mental Health Status, Related Knowledge, and Its Influencing Factors Among First-Year University Students: A Cross-sectional Study in Thailand

Abstract

Background: Mental health plays a vital role in the well-being of university students, particularly first-year students who face academic and social transitions. Understanding mental health status and related knowledge is essential for supporting this population. Objectives: The present study aimed to evaluate the mental health status and mental health knowledge, and to identify the factors that influence mental health among first-year students at a Thai university. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was employed between October 2023 and March 2024, involving all 165 first-year students from seven disciplines within the College of Allied Health Sciences at Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University. A census sampling method was used, as all eligible students who met the inclusion criteria and provided informed consent were included. Data collection was conducted through self-administered questionnaires, which included scales for mental health assessment, knowledge of mental health, and factors affecting mental health. Data were analyzed utilizing both descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis. Results: Among the participants, 81.2% were female, 59.4% had mental health scores above the standard, while 81.2% demonstrated high levels of mental health knowledge. Key predictors of mental health among first-time university students included factors such as gender, field of study, birth order, and levels of family, educational, and social support, which together accounted for a total variance of 31.5% (P < 0.05). Conclusions: The study highlights the need for targeted mental health support, particularly for female students and those in high-stress academic fields. Strengthening family and institutional support may improve students’ mental health outcomes.