Salud mental y su implicancia sobre la voz. Relación que existe entre el estrés percibido y los síntomas vocales en estudiantes universitarios de la Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud en la Universidad Autónoma de Asunción

Abstract

Introduction: According to the World Health Organization (2023), stress is a state of worry or mental tension caused by a difficult situation. The voice, as an essential means of expression, has a complex physiology believed to reflect emotional states. Therefore, vocal symptoms may indicate people's emotional state. Justification: This research aims to contribute new knowledge related to mental health and the voice. It is noted that, socially, there has been an increase in cases related to stress, anxiety, and well-being following the COVID-19 pandemic. It has been shown that these indicators can reflect physiological changes and affect systems, in this case related to the voice production system. Objective: To establish the relationship between mental health and its implications on the voice. Hypothesis: There is a relationship between mental health and vocal symptoms in university students. Material and Method: Two descriptive instruments were used to evaluate self-perception of stress and vocal symptoms. Additionally, a complementary tool specifically designed to expand the evaluation of vocal symptoms was used. Results: Statistically significant correlations were found in symptoms such as the sensation of a lump in the throat, dryness, vocal fatigue, and the perception of increased pitch and intensity. There was also a difference concerning sex, with dryness, tightness, and the sensation of a lump in the throat being more prevalent in females. Conclusions: Statistically significant correlations were found between vocal symptoms and perceived stress. These findings highlight the importance of considering vocal health as a relevant indicator of emotional and mental well-being in academic contexts.