Title: Relationship Between Levels Of Perceived Social Support And Symptoms Of Depression Among Students In Private Universities. Case Of Kampala International University
Authors: Tumuranzye Methodius, Ass. Prof E.O Oladunmoye, Dr Aloysius Tumukunde
Volume: 8
Issue: 7
Pages: 127-137
Publication Date: 2024/07/28
Abstract:
This study aimed to examine the relationship between levels of perceived social support and symptoms of depression among students at Kampala International University. The research involved analyzing data from a sample of students and exploring the association between perceived social support and depression symptoms. Additionally, the study investigated the influence of demographic factors, such as gender, year of study, age, socioeconomic status, and engagement in extracurricular activities, on the relationship between perceived social support and depression symptoms. The findings revealed a significant negative correlation between perceived social support and depression symptoms among the students. Higher levels of perceived social support were associated with lower levels of depression symptoms, indicating that having a strong support network may serve as a protective factor against depression. This highlights the importance of fostering social support systems within the university setting to promote students' mental well-being. Regarding the demographic factors, gender was found to be significantly associated with the likelihood of experiencing high levels of depression. Female students had higher odds of experiencing high levels of depression compared to their male counterparts. This suggests that gender differences play a role in the manifestation of depression symptoms among students and emphasizes the need for targeted interventions and support for female students. The year of study also emerged as a significant factor related to depression symptoms. As students progressed through their academic years, the odds of experiencing high levels of depression increased. This finding suggests that the transition and challenges associated with higher levels of education may contribute to elevated depression symptoms. It underscores the importance of providing appropriate support and resources to students in different academic stages to mitigate the risk of depression. Moreover, socioeconomic status was significantly associated with depression symptoms. Students from a higher socioeconomic status had lower odds of experiencing high levels of depression compared to those from a lower socioeconomic status. This highlights the impact of socioeconomic disparities on mental health outcomes and emphasizes the need for addressing socio-economic inequalities and providing equitable support for all students. Engagement in extracurricular activities emerged as a protective factor against high levels of depression. Students involved in extracurricular activities had lower odds of experiencing depression symptoms. This finding underscores the importance of promoting participation in extracurricular activities as a means to enhance social integration, build support networks, and potentially reduce the risk of depression among students.