Rate and Predictors of Depression among Selected Under Graduates and Post Graduate Students of Hazara University Mansehra, Pakistan

Mental health issues in university students are important problem which are needed to be addressed on priority basis according to the epidemiological data. Objective of current study were the screening of Post graduated and under graduates of Hazara University Garden Campus for assessing the rate of depression and its predictors among them. Total 600 students were approached, 300 post graduate students and 300 under graduate students data were collected by means of questionnaire. Beck Depression scale used as standard and questions were prepared according to it to assess major factors of depression. Response rate of students was reported 436/600, 209 under graduates and 227 post graduates respectively. In under graduates minimal to mild depression was reported 94.74% however only 5.26% students had moderate depression. On other hand 98.68% post graduates fall in mild to moderate degree of depression while moderate depression was reported in only 1.32% students. Interestingly none of student falls under category of severe depression. Major cause of depression among all graduates was academic stress as it is 73.68% and 54.60% in under graduates and post graduates respectively. Universities and health authorities should done studies among students to determine rate of depression and steps should be taken to minimize causes of depression among students so they can attain a good mental health status.