DIFFERENCES IN MENTAL HEALTH PROBLEMS BY GENDER AMONG STUDENTS ENROLLED IN CREDIT-BEARING CO-CURRICULAR COURSES

Abstract

The mental health of undergraduate students is closely associated with the factors that contribute to the mental stress they experience and their ability to cope with it. This article discusses the findings of a study on gender differences in mental health among undergraduate students, with a particular focus on comparisons between male and female students. Identifying these stress-related factors is essential for developing corrective measures to reduce their impact. The present study explores the factors affecting students’ mental health and the various coping mechanisms employed by students. An instrument was developed and validated to collect information on the factors responsible for mental health disorders among students, as well as the coping strategies they use. The chi-square test was employed to examine the factors contributing to students’ mental health problems, the various coping mechanisms adopted, and the relationship between students’ characteristics and mental health problems. The study found a significant association between mental health disorders and gender (p < 0.05), with female students reporting a higher level of exposure to mental health-related problems than their male counterparts. Multivariate logistic regression confirmed that female students were significantly more likely to report mental health issues compared to males ( ). Academic workload and financial constraints were identified as primary stressors, while peer support and problem-focused coping were predominant mechanisms. These findings can serve as a guide for educational institutions, policymakers, and mental health practitioners in developing more focused and effective strategies to address mental health issues among college students.