Investigating the Prevalence of Depression Among Young Men in Tertiary Institutions in Western Kenya Region

• Author(s): Christine Julie Nabwire ; Florence Wanjala
• Paper ID: 1706993
• Page: 501-508
• Published Date: 22-01-2025
• Published In: Iconic Research And Engineering Journals
• Publisher: IRE Journals
• e-ISSN: 2456-8880
• Volume/Issue: Volume 8 Issue 7 January-2025

Abstract

This study investigated the prevalence of depression among male students in tertiary institutions in Western Kenya, examining risk factors and help-seeking behaviors. The research addressed a critical gap in understanding mental health challenges faced by male students in the region's higher education institutions. Using a cross-sectional mixed-methods design, the study surveyed 378 male students aged 18-24 years from four universities and three technical colleges in Western Kenya. Data collection employed the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), structured questionnaires, and semi-structured interviews. The study utilized both quantitative analysis through SPSS version 27.0 and qualitative thematic analysis. Results revealed that 31.2% of participants experienced moderate to severe depressive symptoms, with financial strain emerging as the strongest risk factor (OR=2.34, 95% CI: 1.76-3.12, p<0.001). Among students with depressive symptoms, only 12.7% sought professional help, while 60% did not seek any form of assistance. Stigma (34.1%) and cost of services (28.8%) were identified as primary barriers to help-seeking behaviors. Academic pressure (OR=1.98) and living away from family (OR=1.76) were also significant risk factors. The findings highlight a substantial mental health treatment gap among male students in Western Kenya's tertiary institutions. Recommendations include establishing comprehensive financial support systems, implementing peer support programs, and developing male-specific mental health interventions that address cultural barriers. These findings contribute to understanding the intersection of gender, education, and mental health in the African context, emphasizing the need for targeted institutional and policy responses to support male students' mental health needs.

Keywords

Depression, male students, tertiary education, Western Kenya, mental health, help-seeking behavior

Citations

IRE Journals:
Christine Julie Nabwire , Florence Wanjala "Investigating the Prevalence of Depression Among Young Men in Tertiary Institutions in Western Kenya Region" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 8 Issue 7 2025 Page 501-508

IEEE:
Christine Julie Nabwire , Florence Wanjala "Investigating the Prevalence of Depression Among Young Men in Tertiary Institutions in Western Kenya Region" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 8(7)