Publication:

A cross-sectional study on depression among government school going adolescents in a rural area of Delhi

Background World Health Organization estimates that every year, about 20% of adolescents experiences a mental health problem. Adolescent depression is risk factor for school absenteeism, substance abuse and suicidal tendencies. Peer pressure, academic performance, bullying at school, substance use plays an important role in causing depression.

Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among class 11th students of government schools in a rural area of Delhi. Hindi validated version of patient health questionnaire (PHQ-9) was used along with a self-reporting questionnaire to collect sociodemographic data and information on variables associated with depression. A score of 10 or more was taken as cut-off for depression. Data analysis was done using statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) version 20. Chi-square was used to test for association between qualitative variables, and a p<0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results There were 286 males (52.7%) and 257 females (47.3%) among study participants. Their age ranged from 15-19 years, with a mean age of 16.7±1.02 years (95% CI: 16.6-16.8). Majority of the study participants were from arts (395; 72.7%). The prevalence of depression was 28.2% (n=153) and was found to be significantly higher among students above 18 years, who consumed tobacco, alcohol and who had ever bullied somebody.

Conclusions Study revealed that more than a quarter of the adolescent students of class 11th from rural government schools were depressed. Awareness regarding the signs and symptoms of depression should be raised through sensitization of teachers, family and peer groups.