Prevalence and Risk Factors of Adolescent Depression in Urban and Rural Bangladesh: A Cross-Sectional Study
Monira Yeasmin *
Department of Statistics, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali-3814, Bangladesh.
Joynab Binta Marium Kali
Department of Law, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali-3814, Bangladesh.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Aims: Adolescent depression is a significant concern in Bangladesh, as many young people experience depression without access to adequate treatment. This study aimed to explore the prevalence of depression and the factors contributing to this mental health issue among adolescents in urban and rural Bangladesh.
Study Design: Cross sectional study.
Sample: This study was conducted with 389 adolescents in grades 8 to 10 from Dhaka and Noakhali districts.
Methodology: Data were gathered through a questionnaire that included questions about socio-demographics, lifestyle factors, and mental health. X2 test and logistic regression model were used for analysis purpose. All statistical analysis were performed in STATA (16.0).
Results: A total of 35.21% of adolescents reported experiencing depressive symptoms, with a higher prevalence among females (36.8%) compared to males (32.9%). Socio-demographic factors such as gender, place of residence, and school grade were significantly associated with depression. Logistic regression analysis revealed that screen-based sedentary behaviors (SBSBs) like social media use (OR: 1.06; 95% CI: 0.45–2.72), high screen time (over 2 hours per day; OR: 1.24; 95% CI: 0.69-2.54), and sleep disturbances (OR: 1.33; 95% CI: 0.76-2.63) were significantly related to depressive symptoms.
Conclusions: Depressive symptoms are widespread among adolescents in both urban and rural areas of Bangladesh. Consequently, it is essential to implement urgent measures to mitigate the rise of depression among Bangladeshi adolescents.
Keywords: Depression, lifestyle, risk factors, socio-demographic, urban and rural adolescents