Relationship between Students’ Depression and their Academic Performance at University Level

This study was designed to examine the relationship between the level of depression among university students and their academic performance. This descriptive study used a cross-sectional survey including two universities, i.e. Mirpur University of Sciences and Technology (MUST), Mirpur, AJ&K and the University of Kotli, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (UoKAJK). The population of the study consisted of 2,920 students (1,660 from MUST and 1,260 from UoKAJK). The researchers used a stratified random sampling technique for the selection of a sample of 600 students (341 from MUST and 259 from UoKAJK). The research used a self-developed questionnaire in the current study for measuring students' academic performance, while the depression level of the students was measured using the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). The study used frequency, mean, standard deviation and Pearson's correlation tests for analyzing the data. The results of the study indicated that the university students exhibited academic performance. The results of the study concluded that there is a negative and significant relationship between the depression level of students and their academic performance. Based on the findings, it is recommended that university authorities implement mental health support programs to address depressed students. These programs may help students manage their depression more effectively, potentially improving academic outcomes.