Prevalence and Contributing Factors of Depression Among Undergraduate Nursing Students in Nepal: A Cross-Sectional Study

concern among undergraduate nursing students, exacerbated by academic pressures, clinical responsibilities, and socio-cultural challenges. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of depression and explore its contributing factors among nursing students in Nepal. A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed, involving 260 nursing students selected through stratified random sampling from diverse institutions across Nepal. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire, including the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) for depression screening. The study revealed that approximately 46% of participants reported symptoms of depression, with significant associations found between depression and factors such as age, alcohol consumption, smoking, stress levels, and living area. The odds of depression were higher in older students (aged 21 and above), alcohol consumers, smokers, and those with higher stress levels. Rural students also showed a higher prevalence of depression, though this was not significant after adjusting for other factors. These findings underscore the need for targeted mental health interventions to address the unique stressors faced by nursing students in Nepal, including stress management, substance use prevention, and access to mental health support. Keywords: Depression, Nursing Students, Mental Health, Nepal, Stress, Alcohol Consumption, Smoking, Socio-cultural Factors.