PREVALÊNCIA DE ANSIEDADE E DEPRESSÃO NO IMPACTO DA QUALIDADE DE VIDA SOCIAL E ACADÊMICA NO ENSINO SUPERIOR

ABSTRACT This study aims to analyze the relationship between symptoms of anxiety and depression and the quality of life of university students in the health field. It is a quantitative, descriptive, and cross-sectional research conducted through the application of validated questionnaires: the WHOQOL-bref for assessing quality of life and another created by the authors themselves to identify symptoms of anxiety and depression. Data were collected from students enrolled in various health-related courses, and the results indicated a significant prevalence of psychological symptoms, especially among those who transitioned from high school to higher education. The analysis revealed a correlation between levels of anxiety and depression and the physical, psychological, social, and environmental domains of the WHOQOL-bref. It is concluded that psychological well-being directly influences university students’ quality of life, highlighting the need for institutional strategies to promote mental health in the academic environment. Keywords: anxiety; quality of life; university students.