Depression, Anxiety and Stress Among Nursing and Paramedic Students of a Tertiary Care Teaching Institution in Jammu: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract Background: Nursing and paramedical students face multiple academic and clinical stressors that increase their vulnerability to depression, anxiety, and stress. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of these psychological conditions and their association with socio-demographic and bio-social variables among nursing students in a tertiary care institution in Jammu. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 310 undergraduate nursing and paramedic students at Acharya Shri Chander Institute of Nursing Education & College of Paramedic Sciences, Jammu, from November 2025 to January 2026. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire including socio-demographic details, bio-social variables, and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 21.0, applying Chi-square tests, with p < 0.05 considered significant. Results: Among participants, 60% were female and 62.9% were from rural areas. Mild to severe depression, anxiety, and stress were reported in 38.7%, 53.2%, and 40.3% of students, respectively. Female gender, rural background, and hostel residence were significantly associated with higher psychological distress (p < 0.05). Students sleeping less than six hours and those not participating in outdoor games showed significantly greater levels of depression, anxiety, and stress (p < 0.01). Conclusion: A considerable proportion of nursing and paramedic students experienced psychological distress influenced by lifestyle and social factors. Promoting adequate sleep, physical activity, and routine mental health support can enhance well-being and performance in this vulnerable group.