Study of toxic habits among students and academic staff in the Veterinary Medicine Degree: implications for health and mental well-being.

Abstract

This study examined substance use, internet habits, and mental health among students and academic staff at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. The primary aim was to identify factors linked to well-being and dissatisfaction. A total of 226 participants took part in the study, including 177 students (78.3%) and 49 staff members (21.7%). Data were collected between October 30, 2024, and January 14, 2025, through a survey adapted from the EDADES framework, focusing on the use of alcohol, tobacco, electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), anxiolytics, illicit drugs, internet behavior, and psychological well-being. Results showed that students reported significantly higher rates of binge drinking, ENDS use, and problematic internet behavior compared to staff. Gender differences were notable, with female participants more frequently reporting emotional distress and a greater need for psychological support. Key factors associated with dissatisfaction included water pipe use, anxiolytic consumption and excessive internet use. Age showed a protective effect, with older participants less likely to report dissatisfaction. Additionally, female participants were significantly more likely to express dissatisfaction with their overall well-being. The findings highlight that veterinary students experience greater psychological distress than academic staff. These results suggest the need for targeted interventions addressing substance use and digital consumption patterns, especially among younger and female individuals, to improve mental health outcomes within veterinary academic settings.