Stress and the risk of developing depression among young people aged between 20 and 35

Introduction. Stress is an inherent element of human life. World Health Organization points to stress as the most harmful factor influencing the life of people today. One of the effects of extensive stress is depression, which is spread so widely that it is now called the “common cold of psychological disorders”.

Aim. The aim of the study was to describe stressful situations and to estimate the prevalence of depressive symptoms among young people.

Material and methods. The research included 100 people of 20 to 35 years of age (Internet survey). The questionnaire was prepared especially for the purposes of the study.

Results. The main source of stress for young people is school, then respectively work, home, health related problems (of family members). The most often mentioned stress related illnesses were depression and neurosis, ulcers, hart diseases. The most often indicated methods of dealing with stress are: solving the stress generating problem, spending time with a close person, taking care of other matters. Fears of depression were present among 20% of respondents. 85,2% of female respondents presented symptoms of PMS and 7% presented symptoms of PMDD.

Conclusions. The main source of stress for young people is school. Methods of dealing with stress differ depending on gender and age. Depression is dependent on domicile.

Nursing Topics 2015; 23 (1): 13–19