GENETIC PREDICTORS OF PSYCHOLOGICAL DISTRESS AMONG BIOLOGY UNDERGRADUATES: IMPLICATIONS FOR MENTAL HEALTH INTERVENTION
Abstract
Mental health disorders, including psychological distress characterized by depression and anxiety are rising among young adults. In addition, unhealthy behaviours including smoking and high alcohol consumption increase the risk of depressive symptoms. Thus, genetic and environmental factors contribute to psychological distress. This study explores genetic predictors of psychological distress among biology undergraduates, aiming to identify underlying factors contributing to their mental health challenges.
A cross-sectional study design was employed, with 600 biology undergraduates enrolled in the year 2023/2024 completing the Kessler Psychological Distress scale (K10) and General Health Questionaire (GHQ-12). The (GHQ-12) – measuring severity of mental health problems, and (K10) – measuring signs of psychological distress. The study measured whether ABO blood group predict psychological distress.
Most participants were aged 16-20 (47.3%) and of predominantly Yoruba descent (87.2%). The most common blood group was O+ (54%), followed by A+(24.7%) and B+ (13%), with genotype AA being the most frequent (80.8%). Psychological distress scores averaged 23.9, indicating a low level of distress. No significant relationship was found between ABO blood groups and psychological distress, as confirmed by Pearson chi-square (p = 0.707) and ANOVA (p = 0.538).
In conclusion, low distress levels suggest effective support systems, but depression, anxiety and stress still have major social impacts. Future research should examine other genetic, environmental, and psychological factors that can predict psychological distress with the ultimate goal of creating more personalised care for students’ well-being and academic success.
Keywords: Psychological Distress, Depression, Anxiety, Genetic Predictors, Blood Type.
Word count: 234
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