Prevalence and Clinical Correlates of Depression among Young Adults Attending a Tertiary Care Hospital

Abstract

Background: Depression is a major public health concern, particularly among young adults, impacting emotional, social, and occupational functioning. Tertiary care hospitals often serve as key points for identifying undiagnosed depression.

Objective: To assess the prevalence, severity, and clinical correlates of depression among young adults attending a tertiary care hospital.

Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted on 120 young adults aged 18–35 years at Autonomous state Medical College, Pilibhit, attending outpatient or inpatient departments, collaboration with the District Institute of Education and Training, Siddharth Nagar, Depression severity was assessed using the PHQ-9 and HAM-D scales. Clinical correlates including sleep disturbance, anxiety, substance use, chronic medical illness, and family psychiatric history were evaluated.

Results: Of the participants, 38% had moderate to severe depression. The highest prevalence was observed in the 21–25 years age group. Clinical correlates such as sleep disturbance (57%), anxiety (60%), substance use (63%), chronic medical illness (60%), and positive family history (72%) were significantly associated with higher depression severity. A strong positive correlation was observed between PHQ-9 and HAM-D scores (r = 0.89, p < 0.001). Gender differences were not statistically significant.

Conclusion: Depression is highly prevalent among young adults in tertiary care settings and is associated with sleep problems, anxiety, substance use, chronic illness, and family history. Routine screening using validated tools like PHQ-9 and timely intervention are essential to reduce the burden of depression in this vulnerable population.