. JOAN N. CHUKWURAH

Depression is a prevalent mental health condition that significantly affects academic performance, social functioning, and overall wellbeing among university students. This study investigated the prevalence and factors associated with depression among undergraduate students at the University of Benin, Edo State, Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was employed, and data were collected from a sample of 382 students drawn from the Faculty of Arts through a stratified random sampling technique. A structured self- administered questionnaire incorporating the standardized Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) was used to assess depression levels, while additional sections captured socio- demographic, academic, and lifestyle variables. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26.0, with descriptive and inferential statistics applied at a significance level of p < 0.05. The results revealed that depression was prevalent among undergraduate students, with varying degrees of severity influenced by socio-demographic, academic, and lifestyle factors. Female students, those with lower socioeconomic status, students living off-campus, and those with high academic workloads were more likely to exhibit depressive symptoms. Furthermore, poor sleep quality, substance use, and lack of social support were significantly
associated with higher depression rates. Academic performance and self-efficacy were inversely related to depressive symptomatology, indicating that academic stress and low motivation contribute substantially to the development of depression. The findings underscore the urgent need for institutional interventions aimed at promoting mental health awareness, early screening, and the integration of counseling and peer support services within the university system. It is recommended that the University of Benin enhance mental health literacy programs, provide academic accommodations for affected students, and strengthen psychosocial support mechanisms to mitigate depression and its consequences among undergraduates.