Prevalence and predictors of anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation among Namibian public university students

Abstract

Background: Anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation are prevalent mental health conditions among university students. Persistent anxiety and depression are associated with morbidity and suicidal ideation predicts suicide. Namibian mental health data are limited.
Aim: This study aimed to determine and analyse the prevalence and predictors of anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation among Namibian public university students.
Setting: The study was conducted at six campuses of the two Namibian public universities.
Methods: A quantitative, cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted among 578 purposively sampled students, using self-administered questionnaire, incorporating Beck’s Anxiety Inventory, Patient Health Questionnaire-9, and Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale. Data were analysed in SPSS version 30, including descriptive statistics, bivariate regression, Pearson’s correlation coefficients, and hierarchical multiple regression.
Results: Among 578 respondents, 50.7% reported moderate to severe anxiety, 73.2% met depression criteria, and 9.1% reported an active suicidal plan. Current mental illness was significantly associated with depression and suicidal ideation (p < 0.001). Depression was predicted by current mental illness (β = 0.276, p < 0.001) and family conflict (β = –0.144, p < 0.001), while suicidal ideation was predicted by current mental illness (β = –0.198, p < 0.001), (p < 0.001), family conflict (β = –0.171, p < 0.001), and age (β = –0.103, p = 0.007).
Conclusion: Anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation are highly prevalent among Namibian university students, necessitating increased mental health awareness and institutional interventions to prevent suicidality.
Contribution: This study provides empirical evidence on the anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation among Namibian public university students.