A Confirmatory Factor Analysis on the Risk Factors for Mental Health Challenges among University Students in Calabarzon: Basis for a Dual Continua Wellness Initiative (DCWI)

University students face escalating mental health challenges influenced by complex interactions among individual psychological vulnerabilities, interpersonal relational difficulties, and systemic environmental stressors. This study employed a mixed-methods approach utilizing the Counseling Center Assessment of Psychological Symptoms–62 (CCAPS-62) alongside comprehensive client intake data from university guidance and counseling centers to examine these multifaceted risk factors among Filipino university students (N = 1014). Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) tested a hypothesized three-factor model comprising individual, interpersonal, and systemic risk domains. Results revealed robust factor loadings across all domains (p < .001) with significant covariances (r = 0.928–0.968), confirming the interconnected nature of these risk constructs; however, model fit indices (CFI = 0.650, TLI = 0.629, RMSEA = 0.103) suggest opportunities for measurement refinement. Gender analysis highlighted significant disparities, with female students reporting elevated psychological distress and healthier emotion-focused coping, while males exhibited underreporting and avoidance behaviors. Word cloud analyses of presenting problems identified academic pressures, emotional distress, and relational concerns as dominant themes. The strongest risk associations emerged for childhood trauma (ε² = 0.084–0.148), self-injury (ε² = 0.085–0.189), suicide attempts (ε² = 0.102–0.187), family difficulties (r² = 0.107–0.209), and disability registration (r = 0.387–0.646). These findings underscore the necessity for integrated, gender-sensitive intervention programs simultaneously addressing psychological symptoms, social connectedness, and institutional barriers. The proposed Dual Continua Wellness Initiative (DCWI) provides an evidence-based framework for comprehensive mental health support in resource-constrained university settings.