ABSTRACT
This study was conducted to determine the proportion of students suffering from depression and the underlying causes among students enrolled in various medical programs in Gulf Medical University, as well as the in the university. We conducted a cross-sectional study of all students attending Gulf Medical University, from the first year of education until their final year. We used a self administered questionnaire following WHO's prescribed General Health Questionnaire, to evaluate depressive scores of the students as well as additional questions of our own to collect their demographic data. All efforts to maintain confidentiality of name and personal identifications were maintained. Our survey found that 21% of GMU students had depression, of which maximum percentage was in the Pharm D course, 31%, then MBBS course, 25%. According to a year wise frequency, 4th yr and 2nd yr were the highest at 50.8% and 48.1% respectfully. Our study can be used for future reference to assess the efficiency of students' academic/social progression at Gulf Medical University. These results can enable future action to be taken to increase overall student satisfaction and academic performance and to boost social morale