Determinants of Depression Among Higher Secondary Students of Private Schools of Science Stream in an Urban Area of Western India

BACKGROUND: Depression, due to its devastating consequences, emerged as the third leading cause of mortality among adolescent school-going children. This necessitates research on determinants of depression among students for effective management. The present study evaluated the various determinants associated with depression among the science students of a private school in Rajkot city, India. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was carried out among the 1219 students of a private school of science stream in Rajkot city, adopting multistage sampling methods. Students were screened using Patient Health questionnaire-9 (modified for teens) for depression. A pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire was used to assess the determinants associated with depression. Binary logistic regression analysis was done to find out predictors of depression. RESULTS: About 31.99% of students were found suffering from depression. Physical illness, academic performance, substance abuse, feeling study tough, difficulties in transport, food, monetary and accommodation at a hostel or home, pressure from parents for study, physical activities, sleep disturbance, and bad relations with teachers and classmates were significantly associated with depression. While parental education, physical illness, addiction to any substance, and academic performance emerged only as a predictor of depression. CONCLUSION: The present study showed a significant proportion of students suffering from depressive symptoms and revealed predictors of depression among the students. These required integrated efforts to minimize the risk of depression among the students.