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Perceived Stress and Mental Health among University Students in Multan
Qamar Hussain Babar
Abstract:
This study examines the levels of depression, anxiety, and stress among university students. It also explores gender differences in these psychological outcomes as well. A quantitative, cross-sectional research design was employed to collect data. The sample included university students (50 males, 50 females). DASS-21 (Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21) and the Perceived Stress Scales (PSS) were used for assessment measures. Descriptive statistics were computed by using basic statistical methods and conducted independent samples t-tests (gender comparisons) for each psychological domain. ANOVA was also used to examine differences between the psychological areas. As there was small sample size, effect sizes were calculated using (Cohen’s d). Female students have higher mean scores across all the categories. There was especially strong effect on overall DASS-21 scores (d ≈ 0.97). But the gender differences were not statistically significant (p > .2), which is likely due to limited power. These findings match earlier studies which shows females were more affected. The findings highlight the need for targeted mental health interventions and psychological support services for university students. The study highlights the emotional pressure students faced during pandemic. Small sample size and non-random sampling were limitations in this study. In future studies should include much larger size with representative population. Another finding of this study is that DASS-21 is a useful tool in evaluating students’ mental health.
Keywords:
perceived stress, depression, anxiety, stress, university students, DASS-21, Pakistan
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