Predictive models for first-onset and persistence of depression and anxiety among university students

Abstract

Background: Depression and anxiety are both prevalent among university students. They frequently co-occur and share risk factors. Yet few studies have focused on identifying students at highest risk of first-onset and persistence of either of these conditions. Methods: Multicenter cohort study among Spanish first-year university students. At baseline, students were assessed for lifetime and 12-month Major Depressive Episode and/or Generalized Anxiety Disorder (MDE-GAD), other mental disorders, childhood-adolescent adversities, stressful life events, social support, sociodemographics, and psychological factors using web-based surveys; 12-month MDE-GAD was again assessed at 12-month follow-up.