Seminary’s Silent Struggle: A Quantitative Analysis of the Prevalence of Depressive Symptoms among Seminarians

Abstract

Background: The mental well-being of seminary students is a vital yet often overlooked aspect of theological education. This study examines depression symptoms, associated risk and protective factors, and the changes in symptoms in students enrolled in a 3-year Master of Divinity program. Methods: Data from the Seminary to Early Ministry study were utilized, focusing on two entering cohorts (2019 and 2020) from a United Methodist-affiliated divinity school in the Southeast United States. Surveys were administered at enrollment, mid-program, and graduation, assessing depressive symptoms via the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale – Revised (CESD-R) and gathering information on demographics, exercise, prayer, and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). Logistic regression and Generalized Linear Mixed Models (GLMMs) analyzed the predictors of depressive symptoms and their changes over time. Results: The study revealed a consistent baseline level of depressive symptoms across all rounds. At baseline, adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and anxiety diagnoses were associated with elevated symptoms. GLMM analysis revealed temporal changes in depressive symptoms were significant at round 2, potentially indicative of a mid-program crisis. Demographic factors like race, gender, sexual orientation, and prayer practices did not significantly predict depressive symptoms. Conclusions: The findings highlight seminary students' evolving mental health landscape and emphasize the importance of continuous support. Personal history factors, such as ACEs and anxiety diagnoses, play a crucial role in mental health, while demographic factors show less impact. This study contributes essential insights for developing support systems in theological education.