Mental Health Correlates in Herat University Students: A Demographic, Socio-cultural, and Learning Environment Study

Abstract

Background: The university environment encompasses both the physical infrastructure and the social interactions within an academic community that shape the overall learning experience. The heightened stress and academic pressure associated with university life contribute to the rising prevalence of mental disorders among students. This study aims to investigate the prevalence and correlates of depressive and anxiety symptoms among Herat University students.

Methods: An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted at Herat University between September and December 2022. Data on mental disorders were collected using the Dari-translated Version of the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) scales. Sociodemographic and learning environment data was collected via a 24-item structured questionnaire. Data analysis was conducted using IBM SPSS Statistics version 27. Descriptive statistics were used to show the prevalence of mental disorders.  Chi-square tests and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify potential association and predictors of mental disorders.

Results: Of all participants in the study, 72.9% and 73.2% exhibit mild to severe levels of depression and

Anxiety, respectively. Participants’ self-confidence, adaptability to new university environment, self-perceived success, their current levels of social activities, and social interaction with peers were associated with both depressive and anxiety symptoms. In contrast, access to study material, social support, ability to find friends at university, and access to healthcare were significantly associated with depression. Furthermore, anxiety was associated with low internet accessibility, lower family income, parental comorbidities, and recreational activities. Multivariate regression analyses revealed that participants’ self-perception as successful individuals, and their abilities to adapt well to academic lives were predictors of depression, while being self-confident and adaptable to academic lives were predictors of anxiety.

Conclusion: Depressive and anxiety disorders were prevalent among Herat University students. Targeted interventions that address the specific needs of university students are essential for promoting the mental well-being of university students.