The Effect of Anxiety and Depression on Academic Performance of the Students

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to explore how social support is related to the overall well-being of college students. Literature suggests social support buffers a negative effect of distress on academic performance. A multiple linear regression was conducted to examine the association between anxiety, depression, social support, and academic performance. Some findings were not congruent with the literature. Although social support had a significant moderating effect, it did not necessarily buffer the negative influence of depression on academic performance. Surprisingly, among the group who reported having low social support, depression had a positive relationship with academic performance. After eliminating an insignificant moderating effect of social support on the relationship between anxiety and academic performance, the total effect of anxiety on academic performance was not significant. The implication of the findings is not to disregard mental health issues; rather, it is possible that these students are more difficult to reach due to less visible symptoms and/or succeeding academically.