Depression, anxiety, and stress among urban and rural adolescents in Shivamogga, Karnataka

TL;DR

This study found that about a quarter of adolescents in Shivamogga, India, experience depression, anxiety, or stress, with slightly higher rates in urban areas.

Contribution

The study provides current prevalence data on mental health issues among urban and rural adolescents in Shivamogga.

Findings

Depression, anxiety, and stress were more prevalent in urban adolescents (23.1%, 29.4%, 26.6%) than in rural ones (19.1%, 24%, 21.1%).

Approximately 25% of adolescents in both urban and rural areas suffer from at least one mental health issue.

The findings highlight the need for improved mental health policies and education for adolescents.

Abstract

Background: Currently there are 1.3 billion adolescents worldwide, which makes up 16% of the world population. Over 20% of adolescents around the world are thought to have behavioural or mental health issues. Addressing mental health issues is very important for the promotion of positive health in adolescents.

Methods: The objective of our study was to estimate the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress among adolescents in urban and rural areas of Shivamogga. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 350 adolescents aged 16 to 19 years each from urban and rural areas of Shivamogga.

Results: Depression, anxiety and stress were found to be 23.1%, 29.4% and 26.6% in urban areas and 19.1%, 24% and 21.1% in rural areas respectively.

Conclusions: About a quarter of the adolescent population suffers from depression anxiety and stress. Adopting and implementing better education and health policies are necessary to enhance adolescent mental health.