Psychological distress among college students in Kerala, India—Prevalence and correlates

•Study reports prevalence of psychological distress among Indian college students.•Prevalence of distress was 34.8% (Mild-17.3%; Moderate-9.2%; Severe-8.3%).•Distress was higher among females, an urban residence and being above poverty line.•Distress was correlated with substance use, suicidality, sexual abuse & ADHD.•Increasing severity of distress was associated with higher morbidity. To study the prevalence and correlates of psychological distress among college students in Kerala, India. 5784 students across 58 colleges were self-administered Kessler’s Psychological Distress Scale (K10) and other standardized instruments. The prevalence of psychological distress was 34.8% (Mild-17.3%; Moderate-9.2%; Severe-8.3%) with a female predominance. Students with psychological distress were more likely to report academic failures, substance use, suicidality, sexual abuse and symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Students with severe distress had higher morbidity. Psychological distress is common among college students and its association with negative correlates suggests the need for early interventions.