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Date of Award

5-2026

Document Type

Restricted Project: Campus only access

Degree Name

Master of Science in Nutrition Science

Department

Health Science and Human Ecology

First Reader/Committee Chair

Chen-Maynard, Dorothy

Abstract

Mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression are becoming increasingly prevalent among many college students across the United States, leading to an increase in the use of psychotropic medications. While these medications are often effective, they are commonly associated with adverse side effects such as increased or decreased appetite, changes to body weight, gastrointestinal function, and therefore, overall nutritional status. Current literature has largely focused on prevalence and attitudes toward psychotropic medication use and access to psychiatric care, with limited information on nutrition-related side-effects or lived experiences with managing these effects. The aim of this project is to explore college students’ self-reported experiences when using psychotropic medications, emphasizing the identification of side effects that influence nutrition and health behaviors. Results can be used to assist in the development of an accessible, nutrition-focused educational tool for college students prescribed psychotropic medications.

A cross-sectional study was conducted through an anonymous Google Forms survey distributed to current college students 18 years of age and older who are currently taking or have experience taking psychotropic medications. Participants were recruited through a mass distribution email through the university's listserv. Demographic information, history of medication use, reported side effects, nutritional impacts, and use of coping strategies were collected. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data, while thematic analysis was applied to open-ended responses.

A total of 14 participants completed the survey, with n=8 (57.1%) reporting current use of psychotropic medications. Antidepressants were the most commonly reported medication class used. Participants described varying amounts of awareness for their medication’s side effects along with different levels of confidence in managing them. Qualitative responses highlighted a need for improved access to clear, accessible information regarding medication use and side effect management.

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