A network analysis of the heterogeneity and associated risk and protective factors of depression and anxiety among college students.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Comorbidity of depression and anxiety is common among adolescents and can lead to adverse outcomes. However, there is limited understanding of the latent characteristics and mechanisms governing these disorders and their interactions. Moreover, few studies have examined the impacts of relevant risk and protective factors.

Methods

This cross-sectional study involved 1,719 students. Mplus 8.0 software was used to conduct latent profile analysis to explore the potential categories of depression and anxiety comorbidities. R4.3.2 software was used to explore the network of core depression and anxiety symptoms, bridge these disorders, and evaluate the effects of risk and protective factors.

Results

Three categories were established: "healthy" (57.8%), "mild depre

SUBMITTER: Niu C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11861700 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature