STRESS, DEPRESSION AND SUICIDAL IDEATION AMONG UNDERGRADUATE IN PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES IN CROSS RIVER STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

The study investigated stress, depression and suicidal ideation. Two hypotheses were formulated to guide the study. The study adopted a survey research design. The sampling followed a multi-stage procedure (stratified and random sampling techniques). A sample of 1,016 was used for the data. Stress and depression questionnaire (SDQ) and Suicidal ideation questionnaire (SIQ) were the instruments used for data collection. Data collected was analyzed using simple regression analysis at .05 level of significance. The result of the analysis showed that both course load-related stress and self efficacy-related stress has statistically significant influence on suicidal ideation among undergraduates in public universities in Cross River State. Based on the findings, it was recommended among others that University governing councils and school management boards in public universities in Cross River State should take urgent steps to establish comprehensive mental health centers within campuses. These centres should also offer confidential, walk-in services and operate flexible hours to accommodate students’ schedules. The National Universities Commission (NUC) and institutional curriculum committees should review and revise existing academic frameworks to reduce excessive course loads that contribute to academic stress and depression.