Exploring Contributing Factors to Depression in Young Adults: A Survey Based Research

Abstract

This study investigates the factors contributing to depression in young adults through a survey-based methodology targeting individuals aged 18-35, with a significant focus on those aged 18-24. Clinical depression, characterized by intense sadness and impaired daily functioning, remains underdiagnosed despite its prevalence. The survey data, collected from students and postgraduates, reveal key factors influencing depression: financial stress (39.8%), adverse living environments (39.8%), traumatic experiences (29.5%), physical health issues (28.4%), academic pressure (30.7%), and genetic predisposition (43.2%). Alarmingly, 90.9% of participants do not seek professional psychological help, despite experiencing significant symptoms. These findings underscore the urgent need for accessible mental health services and interventions to address these factors, aiming to prevent the progression of depression and improve the well-being of young adults.