Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Levels on DASS-21 Scale of First Semester Students at Community College

Abstract

The transition from high school to college is a challenging phase for students, often accompanied by academic, social, and personal stressors that can impact their mental health. First-semester students, in particular, face heightened levels of depression, anxiety, and stress, which can negatively affect their academic performance and well-being. This study aimed to assess the levels of depression, anxiety, and stress among first-semester students at Kolej Komuniti Ledang using the DASS-21 (Depression, Anxiety, Stress Scale). A sample of 97 students was selected through stratified random sampling, and data were collected via self-reported questionnaires. The analysis revealed moderate to strong positive correlations between depression, anxiety, and stress, with a significant portion of students experiencing mild to severe symptoms, particularly anxiety. The results indicate that as depression levels rise, anxiety and stress levels also tend to increase. The study concluded that these mental health issues are interrelated and must be addressed simultaneously to improve student well-being and academic success. The findings emphasize the need for comprehensive mental health interventions, including early detection, counselling, and stress management programs tailored to the specific needs of students.