Prevalence of depression and its associated factors among Nursing Students in a College of Nursing Institution in Benin City Edo State, South-South Nigeria.

Ejovi Akpojaro; Christiana I Elusoji; Eugene Ohams Ohanme; Azuogu Chioma Victoria; Benedicta Chiamaka Azuogu; Uzochukwu Ofonakara; Benjamin Nwaforcha Nwakelu; Chibueze Ogbodo Nweke; Oliver Ogbuinya

doi:10.5455/JMRR.20251123071355

Abstract
Background: Depression is a significant mental health concern among nursing students globally. Understanding the prevalence and contributing factors to depression in this population is crucial for developing effective interventions for them. This study assessed the prevalence of depression and its associated factors among nursing students in a college of nursing in Nigeria.
Methodology: An analytical descriptive cross-sectional study design was used in this study among 248 nursing students from July 2023-December 2023 using standardized patient health questionnaire to evaluate depression, attitudes towards mental health support, and potential contributing factors. The data was analyzed using IBSM SPSS version 21. The study utilized descriptive statistics using proportion and percentages and p-value was 0.05 at 95% confidence interval. The survey gathered information on demographics, and mental health status of student nurses and explored attitudes of student nurses toward seeking professional support.
Results: Result indicate 85% prevalence rate of depression. categorized as mild (59%), moderate (23%), and severe depression (3%). Majority of the respondents (55.2%) have never sought professional mental health support. Only 35.5% of the respondents sought professional support while only 20.2 % had a session with the college counselor. Age ( = 0.022), being financially broke (p=0.001), satisfaction with course of study (ρ = 0.014), feeling lonely (p = 0.032), and sleep quality (p = <0.0001) (OR=7.7, 95% CI=1.913-31.297) showed statistically significant association with the occurrence of depression.
Conclusion: The study reported a high prevalence of depression among study participants and the factors that contribute to it. By fostering a supportive environment and enhancing awareness about mental health resources, nursing programs can improve student well-being and academic success.

Key words: Depression, Prevalence, Nursing Students, Mental Health.