Prevalence and Correlates of Psychological Distress in Adolescent Students from India.

OBJECTIVE

There are limited data on the prevalence and correlates of psychological distress among adolescents in India. This study assessed psychological distress among adolescents who attended school in Kerala, India.

METHODS

A total of 7560 students from 73 schools, aged 12 to 19 years completed a self-administered questionnaire that included Kessler Psychological Distress Scale and other standardised instruments to assess various domains.

RESULTS

Mild psychological distress was reported by 10.5%, moderate distress by 5.4%, and severe distress by 4.9% of students. Older age, not living with both parents, and urban residence were significantly associated with psychological distress (p < 0.05). Students who experienced psychological distress had a higher risk of reporting academic failure, alcohol and tobacco use, suicidality, and sexual abuse. Increasing severity of psychological distress was associated with higher odds of these correlates.

CONCLUSIONS

Psychological distress is common among adolescents and its correlates with negative outcomes suggest the need for early recognition and treatment.