The Correlation of Self-esteem and Depression in the Students of Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Iran

Abstract

Background: Depression is a common mental disorder, and one of the symptoms is low self-esteem. The study of depression and its correlation with self-esteem in students is paramount. Objectives: The present study aimed to determine the correlation between self-esteem and depression in the students of Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences (KUMS), Iran. Methods: This descriptive-analytical, cross-sectional study was performed on 308 students of KUMS in 2018. Data were collected using the questionnaire of self-esteem and Beck depression inventory. The participants were selected via stratified sampling. Data analysis was performed using Chi-square and Mann-Whitney U test. Results: A significant correlation was observed between self-esteem and depression in the students (P < 0.01). Furthermore, significant associations were denoted between self-esteem, marital status, and interest in the field of study. However, no significant correlations were observed between self-esteem, depression, gender, grade point average, major, education level, and the place of residence. Conclusions: Due to the correlation between high self-esteem and the lower prevalence of depression in students, it is suggested that students' self-esteem be improved by conducting the necessary interventions, such as lifestyle modification, nutrition, and physical activity.