Rising prevalence of depression and widening sociodemographic disparities in depressive symptoms among Filipino youth: findings from two large nationwide cross-sectional surveys

Youth depression is a critical target for early intervention due to its strong links with adult depression and long-term functional impairment. In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) like the Philippines, limited epidemiological data hampers mental health service planning for youth. This study analyzed nationally representative survey data from 2013 (n = 10,949) and 2021 (n = 19,178) to estimate the prevalence of moderate to severe depressive symptoms (MSDS) among Filipinos aged 15-24 years, using the 11-item version of the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale. Survey-weighted analyses revealed that MSDS prevalence more than doubled from 9.6% in 2013 to 20.9% in 2021. The rise was most pronounced among females (10.8% to 24.3%), non-cisgender or homonormative individuals (9.7% to 32.3%), youth with primary education or less (10.8% to 26.5%), youth from economically disadvantaged households (10.6% to 25.1%) and youth who were separated, widowed or divorced (18.3% to 41.3%). Disparities in MSDS also widened over time, with some groups bearing a disproportionate burden. These findings underscore the need to expand accessible, high-quality mental health services for youth in LMICs, such as the Philippines. Continued monitoring and targeted interventions are essential to address the rising burden of depression, particularly among underserved and disproportionately affected groups.