Depressive and anxiety symptoms in university students: a study at a university in a state in the northern region of Brazil.

Larrânne Gary Martins Barbosa Amorim, Luana Soares Silva, Zelita Kássia Pereira Mota, Ana Paula Bezerra Barbosa, Gabriela Fernandes Ribeiro, Hellen Cassia Alves Soares Vinicius Lopes Marinho, Jeann Bruno Ferreira da Silva.

Abstract

This study aimed to describe the existence of symptoms of depression and anxiety in undergraduate students at a Public University in a state in the North of Brazil. The methodology used was quantitative and descriptive cross-sectional research with the participation of 362 students from this Educational Institution. The Beck Anxiety and Depression Inventories and a Sociodemographic Questionnaire were used as instruments, which were sent via electronic form. Of the 362 students who participated in the survey, 14% had a minimum level of anxiety, 30% a mild level, 35% a moderate level and 22% a severe level. Regarding depressive symptoms, the data shows that 32% of students presented a level considered Moderate to Severe, 10% Severe, 32% Minimal and 46% Mild to Moderate. It is concluded that the university population studied experiences clinically significant anxious and depressive symptoms, and may experience mental disorders that, if not addressed, may worsen.

Keywords: Depression; Anxiety; University Students