A Longitudinal Case Study of Depression, Anxiety and Stress among Science Students at University Using DASS-21

Abstract

This thesis investigates the levels of depression, anxiety and stress among univer sity students at the School of Natural Sciences, National University of Sciences and Technology (SNS NUST) Islamabad, using the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales-21 (DASS-21). The study aims to assess the reliability of DASS-21 as a measurement tool and to identify any significant changes in students’ mental health across differ ent time points. Data were collected in two phases, with the initial phase serving as a pilot study. The tool’s internal consistency was validated using reliability analysis, which yielded a Cronbach’s alpha value of 0.915. The DASS-21’s factor structure was verified via confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Comparative analysis of the mental health data revealed no significant differences between two key time points; however, hierarchical clustering highlighted slight elevations in stress and depression before the End-Semester Exams (ESEs) and increased anxiety during the sports gala. These f indings suggest that while overall mental health remained stable, specific academic and extracurricular pressures can impact students’ well-being. This study highlights how important it is to evaluate mental health conditions continuously and put sup portive measures in place to assist students in managing stress and anxiety during stressful times.