Depression and Associated Factors among Female University Students: A Web-Based Survey

Abstract

Depressive symptoms are globally increasing among the female population. Young female students are particularly vulnerable to depression because they pass through the age of transition where they have to accept new roles and responsibilities. Female students perceive such transition as very stressful. Besides this, certain other associated risk factors are also involved. Keeping this in mind, the present study has examined the prevalence of depressive symptoms and their associated risk factors among female university students. Data was collected from 223 female students through an online self-administered questionnaire. Socio-demographic data was treated with descriptive statistics, whereas linkages between depressive symptoms and risk factors were determined through multinomial logistic regression. Depressive symptoms were moderately high among 18 to 20 years old female students, unmarried ones, economically poor, and having previous traumatic experiences. Since depressive symptoms impede routine activities and affect the academic performance of students, therefore, it is considered a recognized public health concern. Depressive symptoms can be managed through joint efforts of teachers, and university administration by providing a conducive environment inside the university. Parents should also play their role in dealing with the mental health of their youngsters. In this way, female students can be prevented from the detrimental effects of depression.