Prevalence of Anxiety and Depression among University Students with Neck Pain: A Cross-sectional Study

Objective: To investigate the association between neck pain and level of anxiety and depression among undergraduate students. Methodology: This cross-sectional study included 138 undergraduate students who filled out an online survey. Data were gathered using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) to assess neck pain and the Hospital Anxiety and Sadness Scale (HADS) to assess anxiety and sadness. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 21 to investigate the correlations and associations between neck discomfort and psychological components. Results: Most individuals reported mild to moderate neck discomfort (mean NPRS = 3.57 ± 2.77). There was a strong correlation (p < 0.01) between anxiety and neck discomfort. Anxiety was more common among students, with 7.2% with a score of 6 on the NPRS in abnormal anxiety instances. Depression was also widespread, with a maximum NPRS score of 8 recorded in 4.3% of atypical patients. Female participants reported slightly higher feelings of anxiety (mean: 9.38 ± 4.13) than males (mean: 9.41 ± 3.02). Academic workload and online instruction during COVID-19 played a key role in these outcomes. Conclusion: The study found a significant correlation between neck pain, anxiety, and depression among undergraduate students. The findings emphasize that need for integrated mental health and physical therapy therapies in reducing psychosocial stresses and improving student well-being.