Correlation of Depression and Nightmares in Young Medical Students
Pakistan Journal of Health Sciences June 30, 2025 Kanza Yousaf, Hafiza Hina Pasha
Among 350 medical students aged 18–30, those who reported more frequent nightmares also had higher depression scores. The mean CES-D depression score was 23.0, with females scoring higher (24.8) than males (21.0). Severe depression was more common in females (44.9%) and first-year students (58.6%). Nightmares were reported by 23.9% of participants. A significant positive correlation between nightmare frequency and depressive mood was found (P≤0.01). The authors conclude that depression symptoms and nightmares are significantly associated, especially in females and younger students, and that academic and social factors influence depression symptoms.