VCOM Louisiana Research Day Program

COVID-19 & Epidemiology

Amanda Wright, OMS-III; Jacob Turnbull, DO Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine-Louisiana; University of Louisiana Monroe Athletic Department 41 SCREENING DIVISION I ATHLETES FOR DEPRESSION DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Context: Depression is one of the leading mental health disorders and is most prevalent in young adults. Rates of depression further increased throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, with a third of U.S. adults reporting depressive symptoms, and a fourth of U.S. college students reporting depression that negatively impacts their academic performance. Due to the serious implications of untreated depression and the vulnerable population, regular depression screening and follow up treatment is essential to the well-being in college students. Objective and/or Hypothesis: Through review of PHQ-9 scores of division I athletes, this study aims to identify rates of treatment for patients with scores indicative of mild to severe depression and to analyze potential barriers to follow up in this demographic. Methods: PDSA: Problem: Student depression screening and follow up in pandemic Do: Screen student athletes at ULM with PHQ-9 Study: Average scores, change in scores per year and/ or number that had appropriate follow up Act: Recommendations for improved screening and/or follow up methods. De-identified data was collected from the self-report PHQ-9 screening included in the pre-participation physical examinations completed for athletes at

University of Louisiana Monroe.

Results/Anticipated Results: Currently in progress/Results not complete Conclusion(s): Currently in progress/Results not complete

55 2023 Via Research Recognition Day