Depression and associated educational and clinical characteristics among University of Ilorin Students.

Abstract

Depression among undergraduates is a common mental health condition that can have a detrimental effect on their educational performance. However, its association with certain educational and clinical characteristics has not been well explored. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and  associated educational and clinical characteristics of depression among the undergraduates seen at the University of Ilorin Health Centre. It was a cross-sectional study of 353 consenting students. Data were collected with the use of a semi-structured questionnaire to obtain socio-demographic and relevant educational information. Clinical data werecollected by physical examination for facial acne and anthropometric measurement for body mass index calculation. Depression was screened for with the use of Patient Health Questionnaire-9. Analysis was done with the Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 20. Chi square and t-test were used to test the association between categorical and continuous variables respectively. While multivariate logistics regression was used to determine the predictors of depression. Statistical significance was set at 95% CI and a p-value of 0.05. The overall prevalence of depression was 45.3%; 59.4% mild, 27.5% moderate, 9.4% moderately severe, and 3.7% severe depression Of the educational characteristics studied, only course of study' (χ² 15.411, p-value 0.009), and 'satisfaction with accommodation' (df 1; χ² 4.198; p-value 0.040),were statistically associated with depression Body Mass Index and facial acne were not associated with depression. In conclusion, the prevalence of depression was high among these undergraduates and associated with course of study and student's dissatisfaction with their accommodation. Further studies are recommended to explore these associated factors..