Prevalence of depression among young adults: Evidence from a cross-sectional study in a college in peri-urban South India

Half of all depression begins in the teenage years and goes undetected in early adulthood. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of depression among college-going young adults in a peri-urban area near Bangalore city and determine the associated factors.

This cross-sectional study was conducted from October to December 2018, among 806 students aged ≥18 years in a college in peri-urban Bangalore. Screening for depression conducted using Patient Health Questionnaire-9, with a questionnaire to assess risk factors for depression under six domains: i) socio-demographic factors, ii) family factors, iii) academic factors, iv) relationship factors, v) self-image, and vi) substance abuse. The data analyzed through Chi-square test, and Adjusted Odds Ratios generated by logistic regression analysis. 

Depression among young adults was 31.1% (18.9% moderate depression, 9.2% moderately severe, and 3.1% severe depression). Only 10% of those with depression sought help, none consulted a psychiatrist. Depression was significantly associated with female gender [OR=1.9(1.3-2.7), P=0.001], living in joint families [OR=1.9(1.1-3.2), P=0.023], residing in city [OR=1.6(1.2-2.3), P=0.006], feeling parents were too strict [OR=2.1(1.3-3.2), P=0.001], conflicts with family [OR=1.5(1.1-2.2), P=0.039] or friends/classmates [OR=1.5(1.1-2.2), P=0.043], family history of mental illness [OR=4.5(1.7-11.5), P=0.002], partner abuse [OR=2.0(1.2-3.1), P=0.005], and feeling lack of material possessions [OR=1.6(1.1-2.3), P=0.018].

Nearly one-third of college-going young adults in our study had depression, with family and relationship stressors linked to depression. Our findings reveal a need for awareness generation among college-going young adults, focusing on seeking care for depressive symptoms, de-stigmatization, and strengthening mental health services.