Background: Depression among young people is increasingly recognized as a major public health issue, influencing not only individual well-being but also educational outcomes and social relationships. In Kashmir, the mental health of youth is shaped by a complex interplay of factors, including on-going socio-political challenges, economic constraints, and restricted availability of mental health care services. These conditions can heighten psychological distress and contribute to the development of depressive symptoms. Objectives: The study aims to assess the relationship between the cause of depression amongst kashmiri youth and to generate knowledge that can nourish mental health policies for the development of better prepared prevention, therapy and rehabilitation services. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study design was employed to investigate the determinants of depression among youth enrolled at Kashmir University. The study population comprised university students, from whom a representative sample of 50 participants was selected through voluntary participation. Data were collected using a structured and pre- validated questionnaire designed to access academic stress and depressive symptoms. Prior to data collection, informed consent was obtained from all respondents, ensuring ethical compliance. The collected data were systematically coded and analysed using stastical package for the social sciences (SPSS) Software. Conclusion: The findings of this study demonstrate that depression among Kashmiri youth is shaped and underlying psychosocial factors. Academic pressure was identified as a significant predictor, markedly influencing the prevalence and severity of depressive symptoms. Additionally, factors such as emotional vulnerability, social expectations, and inadequate coping strategies contribute substantially to mental health challenges.