Understanding the Prevalence and Consequences of Mental Health Disorders among Youths: A Focus on Secondary School Students in Hong Kong.

Abstract

Abstract Background Young people are significantly affected by mental health disorders like depression, anxiety, and stress. Mental health education and awareness have been proven effective in preventing these disorders. However, there is evidence that mental health education is lacking or voluntary in local secondary schools in Hong Kong, increasing the vulnerability of young people in local schools compared to their peers in international schools. Therefore, understanding the prevalence of mental health disorders among local secondary school students in Hong Kong is crucial to highlight the necessity of mental health education and support in addressing these challenges effectively. Objective The objective of this study is to assess the mental health of young people attending local secondary schools in Hong Kong. By gaining a deeper understanding of the prevalent mental health issues, the study emphasises the need for mental health awareness in local schools in Hong Kong. Methods The study utilized a quantitative survey method to collect data on mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and stress among from 377 local secondary school students in Hong Kong. The survey employed the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS 21) to measure the prevalence of mental health disorders. Inferential analysis was conducted using SPSS version 26 to generate the result of this study. Results The study findings indicate that 33.3% of local secondary students experienced depression, 41.4% experienced anxiety, and 49% experienced stress. Additionally, there were gender variations across all mental health disorders, with females reporting higher levels of severe depression, anxiety, and stress compared to male students in local secondary schools. Conclusions This study emphasizes the high prevalence and severity of mental health conditions among local secondary school students in Hong Kong, highlighting the importance of integrating mental health education into the curriculum of these schools. It reveals a significant proportion of students experiencing poor mental health, particularly depression, anxiety, and stress. Gender disparities are observed, with females experiencing more severe mental health conditions. The study underscores the importance of targeted interventions and support for females, while promoting mental health awareness and reducing stigma for all students. Further research is recommended to understand underlying factors and inform evidence-based interventions. Proactive measures are necessary to address mental health concerns and create a supportive environment for young people in Hong Kong, especially in local secondary schools.