Prevalence and Causes of Depression Among Undergraduates of University of Ilorin

Depression is one of the most pressing mental health challenges affecting populations worldwide. It plays a critical role in diminishing quality of life, impairing productivity, and straining healthcare systems in the face of increasing academic, economic, and social pressures. Young people, especially students, are increasingly affected by emotional distress, and persistent stressors such as academic pressure and financial hardship. This study investigates the prevalence and causes of depression among undergraduates of University of Ilorin, Kwara State. The specific purposes examined if; (i) depression is prevalent (ii) academic pressure (ii) disrupted sleep patterns and (iv) financial constraint are causes of depression among undergraduates of University of Ilorin.A descriptive research of the survey type was adopted. The population of the study comprised of all undergraduates of University of Ilorin. One hundred and seventy (170) respondents were sampled for the study. The instrument used for data collection was a structured questionnaire which was validated by three experts and tested for reliability that yielded a correlation reliability coefficient of 0.78r and consider that the instrument is reliable. Percentage and t-test statistics were employed for data analysis at 0.05 level of significance. The findings revealed that;  significant difference existed in the prevalence of depression among undergraduates of University of Ilorin on the basis of gender (t(168) = 6.582, p < .005).significant difference existed in academic pressure as a cause of depression among undergraduates of University of Ilorin on the basis of gender (t(168) = -8.027, p < .005).significant difference existed in disrupted sleep patterns as a cause of depression among undergraduates of University of Ilorin on the basis of gender (t(168) = -4.674, p < .005).significant difference existed in financial constraint as a cause of depression among undergraduates of University of Ilorin on the basis of gender (t(168) = -2.961, p < .005).The study concluded that depression is prevalent while academic pressure, disrupted sleep patterns and financial constraint are causes of depression among undergraduates of University of Ilorin. It was recommended that the university should enhance access to mental health services by hiring professionals and promoting awareness. Academic departments need to foster a balanced workload and offer workshops on time management and coping strategies. Awareness campaigns on sleep hygiene should be conducted to promote healthy routines. Additionally, financial support through scholarships and aid should be expanded, alongside financial literacy programs to ease students' economic stress.