Life Stress and Depression in University Students: Clinical Illustrations of Recent Research

Abstract

Through the use of case vignettes, this paper demonstrates the clinical relevance of findings from previously reported research conducted at the University of Toronto. These published studies link life stress to depression in university students. Three psychosocial factors—a family history of psychiatric illness, stressful life events, and lack of social support—are found to be significantly related to depressive symptoms. A fourth psychosocial factor, childhood or adolescent loss of a nurturing person, was not significantly related to the occurrence of depression. However, that factor remains an important therapeutic focus for a number of depressed students. In addition, the absence of at least a single confidant and certain life events (recent loss of a significant person, changes in living arrangements or academic situation, and financial problems) were identified as specific risk factors for depression. Although depression experienced by students is often serious enough to warrant professional intervention, only a minority seek professional help. The majority of those who do seek help are women; male students are less likely to associate somatic symptoms with emotional problems and are less willing to seek psychiatric help. The four case studies presented illustrate the clinical relevance of these research findings.