DEPRESSION, ANXIETY AND SUICIDAL IDEATION AMONG UNIVERSITY STUDENTS: A PREVALENCE STUDY
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UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SARAWAK
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The prevalence of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation among university students is a critical public health concern. This study aimed to examine the prevalence and severity of these mental health issues among students at Universiti Malaysia Sarawak. A cross-sectional survey design was employed, with data collected using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), and the Suicide Behaviors Questionnaire-Revised (SBQ-R). A total of 381 students participated, providing demographic information and responses to the mental health assessments. Results indicated that 26.77% of students experienced moderate depression, with 16.27% reporting severe depression. Anxiety was prevalent, with 33.60% experiencing mild anxiety and 21.00% severe anxiety. Suicidal ideation was identified in 47.77% of participants, categorized as high risk. Gender differences were notable, with female students reporting higher levels of severe depression and anxiety compared to males. The prevalence of mental health issues varied across different faculties and years of study, highlighting the need for targeted mental health interventions. These findings underscore the importance of university-based mental health services to support students' well-being and academic success.