Prevalence of Depression and Related Factors Among International Medical Students at Tehran University of Medical Sciences; [انتشار االكتئاب والعوامل المرتبطة به بين طالب الطب الدوليين في جامعة طهران للعلوم الطبية] Publisher



Nayeri N D ; Sabet M S H ; Khatami F ; Asadollahi E ; Samimi S ; Rafie J
Source: Journal of the Faculty of Medicine Baghdad Published:2026

Abstract

Background: In accordance with DSM-5-TR, Depression is a common psychiatric disorder marked by persistent sadness, loss of interest, and impairment in everyday activities. Recent evidence shows that between 22% and 45% of international students experience depressive symptoms. There is limited information on the prevalence of depression among international medical students at the International Campus of Tehran University of Medical Sciences. Objectives: To investigate the prevalence of depression among international medical students at the International Campus of Tehran University of Medical Sciences and to examine related factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the International Campus of Tehran University of Medical Sciences in 2022, after obtaining approval for the proposal and permission from relevant authorities. A valid questionnaire was distributed to international medical students in the International Campus of Tehran University of Medical Sciences online. A total of 215 students completed the questionnaire, and their responses were entered into SPSS version 26 for descriptive and inferential analysis. Statistical methods used included Pearson correlation coefficient analysis, Student's t-test, and regression models. Results: The age range of participants was 17 to 32 years, with a mean of 22.3±2.74, with 54% females and 46% males. One-third of the students were Indian (34.3%), and the remaining were Pakistanis (27.5%). Those first-born in their families were 42.8%, and most of the students' parents were still alive. Nearly half of the participants were in their first or second year of education, and 9.8% expressed little or no interest in the field of medicine, while about 40% expressed a great deal of interest. Over one-fifth of the participants experienced mild depression, and 16.7% recorded severe depression. The regression analysis revealed that none of the examined demographic and academic variables significantly affected depression scores. Even though the period of residence in Iran and study were associated with depression scores, they did not appear as critical predictors in the regression model. Conclusion: The current study aligns closely with global research findings, indicating a significant prevalence of moderate and severe depression among international medical students. This highlights the need for authorities to prioritize the development and implementation of programs aimed at reducing depression among them. © 2026, null. All rights reserved.