Rate and Predictors of Depression among Selected Under Graduates and Post Graduate Students of Hazara University Mansehra, Pakistan

Aqsa Bibi Aqsa Bibi,Atif Ur Rehman Atif Ur Rehman,Ehsan Humayun Ehsan Humayun,Nodia Shujaat Nodia Shujaat,Sundus Bibi Sundus Bibi

doi:10.25215/0301.040

Aqsa Bibi Aqsa Bibi, Atif Ur Rehman Atif Ur Rehman + Show 3 more

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https://doi.org/10.25215/0301.040

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Abstract

Mental health issues in university students are important problem which are needed to be addressed on priority basis according to the epidemiological data. Objective of current study were the screening of Post graduated and under graduates of Hazara University Garden Campus for assessing the rate of depression and its predictors among them. Total 600 students were approached, 300 post graduate students and 300 under graduate students data were collected by means of questionnaire. Beck Depression scale used as standard and questions were prepared according to it to assess major factors of depression. Response rate of students was reported 436/600, 209 under graduates and 227 post graduates respectively. In under graduates minimal to mild depression was reported 94.74% however only 5.26% students had moderate depression. On other hand 98.68% post graduates fall in mild to moderate degree of depression while moderate depression was reported in only 1.32% students. Interestingly none of student falls under category of severe depression. Major cause of depression among all graduates was academic stress as it is 73.68% and 54.60% in under graduates and post graduates respectively. Universities and health authorities should done studies among students to determine rate of depression and steps should be taken to minimize causes of depression among students so they can attain a good mental health status.

Highlights

Mental health issues in university students are important problem which are needed to be addressed on priority basis according to the epidemiological data
Rate and Predictors of Depression among Selected Under Graduates and Post Graduate Students of Hazara University Mansehra, Pakistan to be taken for individual who is at high risk of depression or the individual showing sub clinical symptoms of depression by involving him in environmental and family functions
RESULTS & DISCUSSION In this study 600 graduates were screened 300 under graduate and post graduate students respectively were approached from first week of December, 2014 to last week of January 2015

Summary

Introduction

Mental health issues in university students are important problem which are needed to be addressed on priority basis according to the epidemiological data. Among University graduates the most prevailing disorder observed is depression and epidemiology of MDD (major depressive disorder) is 8%-20% in student population.[1] Depression is the most frequent mental issue that has character and symptoms like loss of appetite, loss of concentration, misery and lack of intrest.[2] Specific precautionary measures had. Major causes of depression are relationship issues, competitive environment, work overload, ethical issues, personal issues, and death of love ones.[5] Anxiety and depression among graduates resulted in different behavioral issues such as extremism and it is the basic cause of negative management in life issues i-e use of drugs, smoking, excessive use of alcohol, loss of appetite and improper metabolism all these factors cause outcome of poorer health status.[6] Students are the future of any nation and their status of mental health should be addressed because depression is the common issue among graduates it is directly related to their professional life.[7]

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