Examining the Relationship Between Anxiety, Depression, and Gastrointestinal Symptoms Among University Students: A Campus-Wide Survey Analysis

Study purpose: This study investigates the relationship between anxiety, depression, and gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms among university students through a comprehensive campus-wide survey. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey design was adopted in this study. A total of 437 students from three public medical universities in Saudi Arabia participated in the survey, which assessed anxiety and depression using standardized scales and GI symptoms through a tailored questionnaire. Results: The findings reveal a significant overlap between mental health disorders and GI symptoms, highlighting that students experiencing high levels of anxiety and depression frequently report GI issues. This correlation underscores the importance of integrated health strategies to address both mental and physical well-being. Conclusion: This study concludes that there is a significant correlation between anxiety, depression, and GI symptoms among university students. This highlights the need for comprehensive and integrated health interventions that address both mental and physical health to improve overall well-being and academic success in this population.