PREVALENCE OF DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY AMONG UNIVERSITY STUDENTS IN PAKISTAN: A CASE STUDY OF PESHAWAR

Abstract

This research investigates the prevalence of and factors associated with depression and anxiety among the university students in Peshawar, Pakistan. Based on a cross-sectional survey conducted in a sample of public and private universities, the study highlights pervasive psychological distress related to academic, financial, and interpersonal stress. The results suggest that the prevalence of mental health issues is high in female students and in students with a lower socioeconomic position. Academic pressure was also found to be a powerful predictor of both depression and anxiety, whereas being able to benefit from mental health support services reduced the severity of both stress and anxiety. It draws attention to the layered difficulties experienced by students in conflict-affected contexts, particularly in the absence of formal mental health provision within colleges. It highlights the urgent need for action to address the mental health of those at university with a comprehensive approach to mental health in higher education, a focus on gender-sensitive services, accessible counselling and addressing the root causes of academic and financial distress. These findings help lay the groundwork for such interventions and support programming that is based on evidence and contributes to student well-being and academic resilience.

Keywords: Depression, Anxiety, University Students, Mental Health, Peshawar, Academic Stress, Gender Differences, Support Services