Relationship Between Depression and Quality of Life With Academic Performance Among Students of Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences During the Covid-19 Pandemic



Pour HG ; Jahanbani E ; Feleh FB ; Sabouhi F ; Noroozi N
Source: Journal of Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences Published:2025

Abstract

Background and purpose: Assessing students’ academic performance and the factors influencing it, including depression and quality of life, is critically important. This study aimed to examine the relationship between depression, quality of life, and academic performance among students at Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences. Materials and methods: This descriptive–correlational study was conducted on students enrolled at Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences in 2020. The statistical population comprised 5,795 students, of whom 360 were selected using stratified random sampling. Data were collected using the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), a quality-of-life questionnaire, an academic performance questionnaire, and a demographic information form. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 26. Results: The findings showed that pharmacy students had the highest level of depression (mean= 20.4), while the lowest levels of quality of life (mean = 8.61) and academic performance (mean= 11.62) were observed in students from the faculties of Rehabilitation and Dentistry. A significant inverse correlation was found between depression and academic performance (P< 0.001). However, no significant association was observed between academic performance and quality of life (P= 0.12). Among the independent variables, none showed a significant relationship with academic performance, except for a significant inverse correlation between depression and economic status (P = 0.02). Conclusion: The results suggest that, during the COVID-19 pandemic, depression may indirectly influence students’ academic performance. Therefore, addressing mental health-particularly depression-within university settings is essential. Establishing and strengthening counseling centers in universities and student dormitories, as well as developing targeted programs to enhance academic outcomes, is strongly recommended. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.