Prevalence and determinants of depressive symptoms among university students in Ghana

Abstract

Background: Over two million Ghanaians suffer from moderate to mild mental disorders but prevalence levels and determinants among university students remains fairly unknown. A better understanding of depression and its determinants is necessary in developing appropriate interventions in this population group.

Method: A convenient sample of 270 students from a public university (132 males and 138 females) were interviewed using a questionnaire to record socio-demographic variables, HIV risk behaviours. Depressive symptoms were measured using Centre for Epidemiological Studies Short Depression Scale (CES-D 10). Multiple logistic regression was used to identify the determinants.

Results: The mean age was 22 (SD=2.39). Using a cut-off point of 10 of the CES-D10, the overall prevalence of depression was 39.2%; with 31.1% of mild to moderate depression and 8.1% severe depressive symptoms. Significant predictors included lack of social support, religion not having an impact on life, heavy alcohol consumption and traumatic experiences such as being forced to have sex, physically and sexually abused as a child, and beaten by a sex partner.

Limitations: Given the cross-sectional nature of the research, the findings are limited highlighting the need for further research. Also, relying on self-report of symptoms could have influenced the outcome. The use of a single university means that there could be regional differences in depression in other universities.

Conclusion: Depression occurs in a significant number of students. An appropriate intervention must be implemented to help reduce the burden of depression, especially to those found to be at risk.

Keywords: Depression; Ghana; Risk factors; University students.