Global prevalence of depression among university students: a systematic literature review
Résumé
Introduction Depression is one of the leading causes of disability globally, ranking after cardiovascular and respiratory diseases in its contribution to functional impairment and reduced quality of life. University students constitute a particularly vulnerable population due to academic pressure, financial stress, social adjustment difficulties, and transitional life challenges associated with higher education. Despite being regarded as a socially advantaged group, university students continue to experience increasing rates of depressive symptoms across different regions of the world. Existing studies, however, report varying prevalence estimates, making it necessary to synthesis available evidence on depression among university students. Methods This systematic review examined the prevalence of depression among university students using published empirical studies retrieved from electronic databases including PubMed, PsycINFO, BioMed Central, and Medline. A comprehensive search strategy was conducted using keywords such as undergraduate students, university students, young adults, depression symptoms, and prevalence of depression. A total of 622 articles were initially identified through database searching. Following screening, eligibility assessment, and removal of duplicates, eight studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the final review. Results The findings revealed substantial variation in the prevalence of depressive symptoms among university students across the included studies. Reported prevalence rates ranged from 12.8% to 69.5%, with the highest prevalence recorded in one study reporting severe depressive symptomatology among students. Female students consistently demonstrated significantly higher rates of depression than their male counterparts, suggesting greater vulnerability among women within university settings. Age-related differences were less frequently reported; however, one study found significantly higher depressive symptoms among undergraduate students older than 30 years. Across the reviewed studies, university students generally exhibited higher rates of depression compared with estimates reported for the general population. Discussion The review highlights depression as a major mental health concern among university students globally. The consistently elevated prevalence rates indicate an urgent need for institutional mental health support systems, early screening programmes, counselling services, and preventive interventions within universities. Gender-sensitive mental health approaches may also be necessary due to the increased vulnerability observed among female students. Furthermore, the wide variation in prevalence rates across studies suggests possible influences of contextual, cultural, academic, and methodological factors. Universities, policymakers, and mental health professionals should prioritise strategies that promote psychological wellbeing and improve access to mental health services for students in higher education institutions.
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