Factors Related to Depressive Symptoms in University Students

Abstract

Objective: To identify and discuss the frequency of depressive symptoms and their associated factors in university students. Materials and method: This is a cross-sectional and descriptive study with a quantitative approach, conducted in a Higher Education Institution. The study was developed with a convenience sample consisting of 571 undergraduate students from different areas. A questionnaire was used to collect sociodemographic/academic data, as well as depressive symptoms and their associations, life habits, emotional aspects, and possible eating disorders. For data analysis, descriptive statistics and Pearson’s chi-square test were used for associations, with a significance level of 5 % (p-value ≤ 0.05). Results: The university students presented depressive symptoms such as sleep disorders (61.1 %) and reduced self-confidence (50.9 %). There was an association of depressive symptoms with the course, satisfaction with academic performance, obesity, consumption of sugars and sweets, and practice and frequency of physical activity. Conclusions: It is expected that the results of this research contribute to the population’s critical and reflective thinking to expand visibility and scientific studies referring to the theme, as well as to increase resources for the management of mental health and reduce the stigmas generated.

Health behaviours and depressive symptoms in higher education Portuguese students

“…The prevalence of DP in this study was lower (75.9%) than that found in some previous studies [32,36] but similar to others [37]. DP tend to decrease with the length of time spent in higher education according to a study with Brazilian students [38]. The moment of transition and entry into higher education can However, in this study, the fact that the sample mostly consisted of first-year students make it a good indicator of the mental health of these students.…”