Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Among Undergraduates of Selected Colleges at Mangalore: A Descriptive Study

Abstract

Background: Mental health issues, particularly depression, anxiety, and stress, are increasingly prevalent among college students. Multiple stressors such as academic pressure, financial concerns, and social isolation contribute to this trend. Aim: To assess the levels of depression, anxiety, and stress among undergraduate students in selected colleges in Mangaluru and to examine associations with demographic variables. Methods: A descriptive non-experimental correlational design was employed. The study was conducted at Shama Rao School of Nursing, Valachil, Mangaluru, involving 100 first- and second-year General Nursing and Midwifery students. Data collection tools included a demographic proforma and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-42). The data were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The study found that a majority of undergraduate students experience mental health issues, exceptionally moderate anxiety (71%) and mild depression (55%), while stress levels were mostly mild (58%) or normal (40%), with no severe or extreme cases in depression or stress. Correlation analysis showed no significant relationship between depression, anxiety, and stress, as all correlation values were weak (r = -0.125 to 0.151) and not statistically significant (p > 0.05), meaning these conditions do not necessarily co-occur. However, Chi-square analysis revealed significant associations between mental health conditions and several demographic factors. Depression was significantly related to year of study. Anxiety was significantly associated with year of study, family type, and education loan. Highly significant associations were found between level of Stress with age, year of study, father's and mother's occupation, suggesting that both academic pressure and socioeconomic background influence students' mental health. Conclusion: A substantial proportion of undergraduate students are affected by mild depression and moderate anxiety, though these conditions do not necessarily co-occur. Socioeconomic and academic factors significantly influence students' mental health, suggesting the importance of early interventions and targeted support programs.