Family Dynamics and Depression among University Students

Abstract

A cross-sectional study collecting data through an online survey of 853 university students was carried out to examine the prevalence of depression and its associations with background socio-demography, family and college living conditions, and family dynamics. The prevalence of depression was 24.7%. Predictors for depression among university students include being medical or allied health students, having only one confidant, the presence of family conflicts and changes in routine family activities. Having emotional support from family was a significant protective factor for depression among them. Maintaining healthy family dynamics and emotional support are crucial to preventing depression among university students.