Factors associated with depression among undergraduates: a review of existing literature

Abstract

Depression among undergraduate students is a considerable mental health issue. Understanding the factors associated with depression is important to prevent it effectively and to design intervention strategies to mitigate the repercussions of depression. This systematic literature review mainly aims to identify and review the existing academic body of knowledge on the factors associated with depression among undergraduate students in relation to ScienceDirect and Scopus databases. A comprehensive search of ScienceDirect and Scopus databases derived 44 relevant articles published between 2003 and 2023. The review focuses on academic stress, social isolation, financial stress, relationship issues, preexisting mental health conditions, substance abuse, lack of sleep and fatigue, coping mechanisms, family history and genetics to be factors associated with depression among undergraduates. The implications of these findings highlight the importance of universities and counselling services to focus on and implementing stress management programs, providing social support mechanisms, establishing financial support systems during higher studies, promoting healthy relationships, addressing substance] abuse and sleep-related issues, and also providing resources and required support for individuals with pre-existing mental health conditions and family history and genetics on depression to better cope up with depression. Future researchers are encouraged to conduct more longitudinal studies, examine underlying mechanisms, explore mediating and moderating factors while considering cultural and contextual factors, and conduct intervention studies that examine the impact of technology to enhance the understanding of the factors associated with depression among undergraduate students.