EXPLORING COMMON MENTAL DISORDERS IN INDIAN ADOLESCENTS RESIDING IN URBAN INDIA

Abstract

Background:  Common mental disorders (CMDs) in adolescents, may hamper their psycho-social development. However, 
existing literature data is scarce about the prevalence and determinants of common mental disorders in Indian adolescents. 
Aim: The present study aimed at exploring the prevalence and determinants of common mental disorders such as anxiety and 
depression in Indian adolescents aged 15-19 years residing in urban areas. 
Methods:  In the present cross-sectional clinical study,1112 subjects in the adolescent age group residing in urban areas were 
randomly selected. Common mental disorders were assessed using Kid version 6 (MINI-KID) of the Mini International 
Neuropsychiatry Interview following DSM-IV TR and complaints using ICD-10 definitions of CMD. Associated risk factors 
were studied and assessed statistically using a semi-structured self-developed interview schedule.  
Results: In the present study, 982 adolescents were assessed as the response rate among the selected subjects was 88.3%. 
Among them 50.3% (n=494) were females and 49.7% (n=488) were males from the lower middle socioeconomic group. The 
lifetime common mental disorder prevalence was 34%. Among all subjects, 22.4% and 6.7% subjects reported depression and 
anxiety respectively during their lifetime. Female gender faced one/more stressful events during the last 6 months. Also, 
tobacco smoking showed a significant increase in the probability of having common mental disorders. 
Conclusions: The present study concluded that there is a high prevalence of common mental disorders in adolescents residing 
in urban areas of India and subjects were mostly from lower socio-economic groups. Hence, there is a need for detailed 
intervention in stress management and a need to promote healthy lifestyles in late adolescent age groups