INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background of the Study
Mental health has emerged as a critical global public health concern, with increasing attention
being paid to its impact on individuals, communities, and societies. Among the most vulnerable
groups are university students, who face a unique set of challenges that can significantly affect
their psychological well-being. The transition to university life often involves significant changes,
including increased academic demands, financial pressures, social adjustments, and the need
to adapt to new environments. These factors, combined with the developmental challenges of
young adulthood, create a high-risk environment for the onset or exacerbation of mental health
issues.
Recent studies have highlighted a concerning rise in the prevalence of mental health disorders
such as anxiety, depression, and stress among university students worldwide. For instance, a
2021 report by the World Health Organization (WHO) indicated that approximately 20-30% of
university students experience some form of mental health issue during their academic journey.
Despite this growing awareness, there remains a significant gap in understanding the extent of
these problems, particularly in specific regions or institutional contexts. Furthermore, the stigma
surrounding mental health often discourages students from seeking help, leading to
underreporting and untreated conditions.
This study seeks to address this gap by evaluating the prevalence of mental health issues
among university students. By providing a comprehensive analysis of the factors contributing to
these challenges, the study aims to shed light on the current state of mental health in university
settings and its implications for academic performance and overall well-being. The findings of
this research will contribute to the development of targeted interventions and support systems to
improve mental health outcomes for students.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
The mental health of university students is a pressing issue that has far-reaching consequences
for their academic success, personal development, and long-term quality of life. Mental health
disorders such as anxiety, depression, and stress can impair cognitive functioning, reduce
academic performance, and lead to social isolation, substance abuse, and even suicidal
ideation. Despite the growing recognition of these challenges, there is a lack of comprehensive
data on the prevalence of mental health issues among university students, particularly in
specific regions or institutions.
This lack of data poses a significant barrier to the development of effective interventions and
support systems. Without a clear understanding of the scope and nature of mental health issues
in university settings, institutions may struggle to allocate resources appropriately or implement
targeted strategies to address these challenges. Additionally, the stigma associated with mental
health often prevents students from seeking help, further exacerbating the problem. This study
aims to address these gaps by evaluating the prevalence of mental health issues among
university students and identifying the key factors contributing to these challenges. By doing so,
it seeks to provide a foundation for the development of evidence-based interventions and
policies to support student mental health.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The primary objectives of this study are as follows:
1. To assess the prevalence of mental health issues among university students, with a focus on
anxiety, depression, and stress.
2. To identify the primary factors contributing to mental health challenges in this population,
including academic pressure, financial stress, social isolation, and lifestyle factors.
3. To examine the impact of mental health issues on academic performance and overall well-
being, including their effects on grades, attendance, and participation in university activities.
4. To provide recommendations for improving mental health support services within university
settings, including strategies for reducing stigma, increasing access to counseling, and
promoting mental health awareness.
By achieving these objectives, the study aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of the
mental health challenges faced by university students and to inform the development of
effective interventions to address these issues.
1.4 Research Questions
To guide the study, the following research questions have been formulated:
1. What is the prevalence of mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, and stress,
among university students?
2. What are the primary factors contributing to mental health challenges among university
students?
3. How do mental health issues affect the academic performance and overall well-being of
university students?
4. What strategies can be implemented to improve mental health support services for university
students?
These questions are designed to explore the scope and nature of mental health issues in
university settings, as well as their implications for student success and well-being. By
addressing these questions, the study aims to provide valuable insights into the current state of
mental health among university students and to identify opportunities for intervention and
support.
1.5 Significance of the Study
This study holds significant importance for several reasons. First, it contributes to the growing
body of literature on mental health issues among university students, providing valuable insights
into the prevalence and contributing factors of these challenges. By focusing on a specific
population and context, the study adds to the global understanding of mental health in higher
education settings.
Second, the findings of this study have practical implications for universities and policymakers.
By identifying the key factors contributing to mental health challenges, the study can inform the
development of targeted interventions and support systems to address these issues. For
example, universities may use the findings to design mental health awareness campaigns,
improve access to counseling services, or implement stress management programs.
Third, the study highlights the impact of mental health on academic performance and overall
well-being, underscoring the need for universities to prioritize mental health as a critical
component of student success. By addressing mental health issues, universities can create a
more supportive and inclusive environment that promotes student achievement and personal
development.
Finally, this study aims to reduce the stigma associated with mental health by fostering a greater
understanding of these issues and promoting a culture of openness and support. By raising
awareness of the prevalence and impact of mental health challenges, the study encourages
students to seek help and advocates for the normalization of mental health discussions in
university settings.
1.6 Scope of the Study
This study focuses on evaluating the prevalence of mental health issues among university
students, with a particular emphasis on anxiety, depression, and stress. The study will be
conducted within a specific university or group of universities, and data will be collected from
students across various academic disciplines and year levels. The study acknowledges the
influence of external factors such as socio-economic status, cultural background, and lifestyle
choices on mental health but primarily focuses on the university environment and its impact on
student well-being.
The scope of the study includes:
● Assessing the prevalence of mental health issues using validated psychological
assessment tools.
● Identifying the primary factors contributing to mental health challenges through surveys
and interviews.
● Examining the impact of mental health issues on academic performance and overall
well-being using quantitative and qualitative data.
● Providing recommendations for improving mental health support services within
university settings.
While the study is limited to a specific population and context, its findings are expected to
provide insights that are applicable to similar institutions and regions.
1.7 Definition of Terms
To ensure clarity and consistency, the following key terms are defined as they are used in this
study:
● Mental Health Issues: Refers to a range of psychological conditions, including anxiety,
depression, and stress, that affect an individual's emotional, psychological, and social
well-being.
● Prevalence: The proportion of a population found to have a particular condition (in this
case, mental health issues) at a specific time.
● University Students: Individuals enrolled in undergraduate or postgraduate programs
at a university or higher education institution.
● Academic Performance: The measurable outcomes of a student's educational
activities, typically reflected in grades, GPA, or other academic achievements.
● Well-being: A state of being comfortable, healthy, and happy, encompassing physical,
mental, and social aspects.
● Stigma: Negative attitudes, beliefs, or stereotypes associated with mental health
issues that may lead to discrimination or reluctance to seek help.
