Prevalence of Depression, Anxiety and Stress and its Correlation with Professional Help-Seeking Behaviour among Undergraduate University Students: A Cross-Sectional Study

Authors: Ansari AM*, Aakansha B, Charmi P, Riya S, Rajvir D and Shivamsinh R

DOI: 10.23880/pprij-16000445

Volume 9, Issue 4

Abstract

Background: Detecting potential anxiety, stress, and depression among students is essential, as these conditions can result in decreased productivity, a lower quality of life, and even suicidal thoughts. Therefore, the objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress among undergraduate university students. Additionally, the study aimed to determine whether these mental health issues are linked to students' professional help-seeking behaviors. Methods: A total of 880 undergraduate university students participated in the study. The age of the study sample ranged between 18 and 24 years with the mean (SD) of 19.55 (±1.19) years. The students completed the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale 21 (DASS-21). Those who were diagnosed with any of the mental disorders on DASS-21 were asked to fill the Attitude Towards Seeking Professional Help (ATSPPH-SF). Result: Among 880 students, 590 (67.04%) were suffering from either depression, anxiety and stress. The overall prevalence of depression, anxiety and stress were 43%, 55.5% and 31.8% respectively. Pearson correlation coefficient test showed that stress has a negative correlation with attitude towards seeking professional help (r=-0.100, p=0.015). Thus, we can state that attitude toward seeking professional help was inversely related to the level of stress. It implies that the higher the level of stress, the lesser the willingness to seek professional help. Conclusion: It is concluded from the present study that there is a considerable prevalence of symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress among undergraduate university students highlighting the need for clinical evaluation. Professional help-seeking behaviour of students were influenced by the level of stress. Hence, it is recommended to implement educational interventions focused on promoting mental health.

Keywords: Depression; Anxiety; Stress; Attitude toward Seeking Professional Help

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