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The prevalence and socio-demographic correlations of depression, anxiety and stress among a group of university students

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Abstract

Background

The mental health of university students is an area of increasing concern worldwide. The objective of this study is to examine the prevalence of depression, anxiety and stress among a group of Turkish university students.

Methods

Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-42) completed anonymously in the students’ respective classrooms by 1,617 students.

Results

Depression, anxiety and stress levels of moderate severity or above were found in 27.1, 47.1 and 27% of our respondents, respectively. Anxiety and stress scores were higher among female students. First- and second-year students had higher depression, anxiety and stress scores than the others. Students who were satisfied with their education had lower depression, anxiety and stress scores than those who were not satisfied.

Conclusions

The high prevalence of depression, anxiety and stress symptoms among university students is alarming. This shows the need for primary and secondary prevention measures, with the development of adequate and appropriate support services for this group.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences, Dept. of Econometrics, Uludag University, Gorukle, Bursa, Turkey

    Nuran Bayram PhD

  2. Dept. of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Uludag University, 16059, Gorukle, Bursa, Turkey

    Nazan Bilgel MD (Prof.)

Authors
  1. Nuran Bayram PhD
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  2. Nazan Bilgel MD
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Correspondence to Nazan Bilgel MD.

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Bayram, N., Bilgel, N. The prevalence and socio-demographic correlations of depression, anxiety and stress among a group of university students. Soc Psychiat Epidemiol 43, 667–672 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00127-008-0345-x

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00127-008-0345-x

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