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Anxiety and Depression Among University Students in Cali, Colombia: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of the Prevalence and Contributing Factors

Author

Listed:
  • Florencio Arias-Coronel

    (Faculty of Health, Universidad Santiago de Cali, Cali 760035, Colombia
    Grupo de Investigación Salud Integral (GISI), Universidad Santiago de Cali, Cali 760035, Colombia)

  • Carlos Andres Garibello-Millan

    (Faculty of Health, Universidad Santiago de Cali, Cali 760035, Colombia)

  • Diana María Dávila-Vidal

    (Faculty of Health, Universidad Santiago de Cali, Cali 760035, Colombia)

  • María Fernanda Serna-Orozco

    (Faculty of Health, Universidad Santiago de Cali, Cali 760035, Colombia
    Grupo de Investigación en Biomateriales y Biotecnología (BEO), Universidad Santiago de Cali, Cali 760035, Colombia)

  • Mauricio Solórzano-Alarcón

    (Faculty of Health, Universidad Santiago de Cali, Cali 760035, Colombia
    Grupo de Investigación Salud Integral (GISI), Universidad Santiago de Cali, Cali 760035, Colombia)

Abstract

Depression and anxiety are mental health conditions that can significantly impact individuals’ well-being, with various risk factors contributing to their severity. This study aimed to characterise the prevalence of anxiety and depression among a university population and examine the associated sociodemographic factors. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted with 394 students from a higher education institution. Sociodemographic factors were analysed using two validated instruments: the Hamilton Anxiety Scale and the PHQ-9 (Depression Symptom Test). The statistical analyses included Pearson’s chi-square test and Fisher’s exact test to assess associations. Results: The mental health outcomes were significantly influenced by several factors. Key variables associated with anxiety and depression included academic overload (* p < 0.001), gender (* p < 0.001), father’s education level (* p < 0.001), socioeconomic status (* p < 0.001), and sexual orientation (* p < 0.001). These findings highlight the complex interplay between sociodemographic factors and mental health in university students. Conclusions: Early identification and interventions for anxiety and depression should be considered to provide timely and relevant mental health programmes for university students.

Suggested Citation

  • Florencio Arias-Coronel & Carlos Andres Garibello-Millan & Diana María Dávila-Vidal & María Fernanda Serna-Orozco & Mauricio Solórzano-Alarcón, 2025. "Anxiety and Depression Among University Students in Cali, Colombia: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of the Prevalence and Contributing Factors," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 22(9), pages 1-11, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:22:y:2025:i:9:p:1445-:d:1752641
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    References listed on IDEAS

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