Prevalence and correlates of mental disorders in undergraduates: A global review

Abstract

Background: Mental disorders affect the society as a whole and no group is exempted. However, undergraduate students have been shown to have higher levels of mental health problems compared to their counterparts who are not studying in a university. In order to address this challenge facing these stakeholders in the society, it is important to be familiar with the prevalence and understand the factors associated with mental disorders amongst this group of individuals.

Objectives: The aim of this review article is to identify the prevalence and correlates of mental disorders amongst undergraduates globally as well as their consequences on students’ school performance and general well-being.

Methods: A search for related articles was done using Google Scholar, Pubmed and ScienceDirect in July and August 2018.

Results: Prevalence of mental disorders ranged from 8.3-40%. Most studies revealed higher prevalence of mental disorders in college (undergraduate) students when compared with their non-college counterparts. In some studies, depression was cited as the most prevalent mental disorder among undergraduates, while substance use disorders were reported in other cases. Most studies revealed a higher prevalence of depression in females and a higher prevalence of substance abuse in males. Engineering, Education and Medicine were associated with higher prevalence of mental disorders when compared with other courses. Students in extreme socioeconomic conditions generally had a higher prevalence of mental disorders. Poor family background, being married, living off-campus with parents or guardians and poor academic performance all correlated significantly with depression.

Conclusion: Mental health disorders are common health challenges faced by undergraduates at one point of their study or another. It has substantial impact in the students’ level of functioning, general wellbeing and general academic performance. There is need for students to be made aware of the common mental disorders they may face. Universities and colleges should ensure students have adequate facilities/resources for students to seek help from when necessary.