Prevalence and Correlates of Mental Health Problems among Urban Indian Adolescents: a Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract Background: Adolescence is a period of notable physical, psychological, and social changes that can increase susceptibility to mental health morbidities. Understanding their prevalence and associated factors is vital for developing targeted preventive strategies. Objectives: To estimate the prevalence of mental health difficulties among urban high school adolescents and examine associations with socio-demographic, familial, academic, and behavioral factors. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study is conducted among 150 adolescents aged 13–17 years at two urban government schools. The Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) is used to assess mental health difficulties. Data on socio-demographic variables, family environment, academic performance, abuse history, and extracurricular participation are collected. Descriptive and inferential statistics analyzed the data. Results: 26.7% of adolescents are at risk for mental health difficulties, with emotional symptoms and peer problems most prevalent. Risk is significantly associated with single-parent family structure, low income, lower parental education, academic underperformance, abuse history, and inactivity in extracurricular activities. No significant relationship is found with gender or age. Conclusions: Mental health difficulties affect a significant proportion of adolescents influenced by multifaceted social and behavioral determinants. Proactive school-based screening and comprehensive, multidimensional interventions are essential for adolescent mental health promotion.