INFLUENCE OF SELF-ESTEEM AND SUBSTANCE USE ON DEPRESSION AMONG UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS OF FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF LAFIA, NASARAWA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study examines how self-esteem and substance use impact depression
among undergraduates at the Federal University of Lafia, Nigeria. Three hundred and ninety
(390) participants with ages ranging from 19-25 years (Mean= 18.779; SD=11.42) were
selected using a simple random sampling technique. A survey research method was adopted
for the study. Rosenberg’s self-esteem scale, Substance use questionnaire, and Beck’s
depression inventory were used to collect data. Linear regression was used to analyse
hypotheses one and two, and multiple regression was used to analyse hypothesis three. Findings
indicated that self-esteem significantly influenced depression among undergraduate students
of the Federal University of Lafia (R = 0.863 = R2 = 0.547 (F (1,389) = 192.192, t = 14.170, p
< .05). Also, it shows that substance use significantly influenced depression among
undergraduate students of Federal University of Lafia (R = 0.536 = R2 = 0.213 (F (1,389) =
63.820, t = 4.711, p < .05). Similarly, the results revealed that self-esteem and substance use
jointly influenced depression among undergraduate students of Federal University of Lafia (R
= 0.724 = R2 = .520 (F (2, 388) = 107.544, t = -5.087, p < .05). It was recommended that;
University management should ensure the availability of mental health resources and support
services for students. This could include counselling services, workshops on self-esteem
management and well-being, and access to mental health professionals. There should be regular
assessment of the mental health and well-being of students through surveys or confidential
feedback mechanisms. This can help identify individuals who may be at risk of depression and
enable targeted interventions or support. Substance use tests should be done regularly in order
to checkmate the illegal use of substances by students.