Predicting Depression Based on Spiritual Intelligence and Emotional Intelligence in Students of Ilam University in 2016

Depression is a common problem among young people that can affect their mental health. Spiritual and emotional intelligences can also improve the health of the person by strengthening personal relationships and spirituality. The aim of this study was to predict depression based on spiritual intelligence and emotional intelligence in students of Ilam University in 2016. In this descriptive study, 368 students were selected using a random cluster sampling. Three questionnaires regarding depression, spiritual intelligence and emotional intelligence were used as the means of data collection. The data were analyzed using Pearson’s correlation coefficient and multiple linear regressions analysis. The results of the study revealed that there is a significant negative correlation between the spiritual intelligence (r= -0.36) and emotional intelligence (r= -0.35) with depression (p< 0.001). Regression coefficients for linear combination of spiritual intelligence and emotional intelligence with depression was significant in the level less than 0.001. The results showed that Extending the consciousness state (ß= -0.38) had the greatest importance in explaining the variance of depression (R2=19%) (p< 0.001). It seems that spiritual intelligence and emotional intelligence are related with student's depression. Therefore, it is suggested that therapists and counselors pay attention to these components in their agenda in the treatment and reduction of the rate of depression among these people.