What can be done to Improve the Mental Health of University Students? Identifying Determinants of Psychological Distress at an Australian University

Background: Mental health problems are common among university students. This study examined associations between determinants of mental health and psychological distress among university students with the aim of identifying priorities for policy and practice action. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 3,581 university students (response rate: 7.1%) who completed an anonymous online survey. Individual determinants included socio-demographics and financial, housing, and employment status. Community (university) determinants were social inclusion, social acceptance, and overall satisfaction. Psychological distress, measured using the six-item Kessler Psychological Distress Scale, was modelled (as outcome) using multiple linear regression. Results: Mutually-adjusted individual-level determinants were age (β [95% CI]:-0.50 [-0.60,-0.41]), LGBTQI+ identity (0.96 [0.52, 1.40]), having a current health condition (3.23 [2.85, 3.60]), being a current carer (0.68 [0.04, 1.32]), country of birth other than Australia (1.19 [0.84, 1.54]), financial stress (2.43 [1.99, 2.86]), being satisfied with housing (-0.84 [-1.18,-0.51]), and having full-time employment (-0.49 [-0.99, 0.00]). Community determinants were social inclusion (-0.97 [-1.34,-0.59]), social acceptance (-0.82 [-1.32,-0.33]), and overall satisfaction (-1.74 [-2.21,-1.28]) at university. Conclusion: Results suggest that interventions at this university could beneficially target financial stress, housing satisfaction, employment status and social inclusion, social acceptance, and overall satisfaction at university. For maximum benefit, programs could prioritise or be tailored to younger students, current carers, those born outside of Australia, and those who identify as LGBTQI+ or have a current health condition.