Prevalence and factors associated with depression and anxiety in young people in Switzerland and Liechtenstein in the post pandemic context

Over the past decade, youth mental health has become an increasing concern, highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aims to identify the factors associated with depression and anxiety among young people in Switzerland and Liechtenstein during the specific period of the pandemic’s decline in the summer of 2021. Data were drawn from a national cross-sectional survey targeting 14-to 19-year-olds, recruited via social media platforms. A total of 1197 participants (48% female, 49% male, 3% other gender; mean age 16.5) were categorized based on the Kutcher Adolescent Depression Scale and General Anxiety Disorder score into three groups: no depression or anxiety, depression or anxiety, and both. The analysis compared these groups on various factors including sociodemographic characteristics, somatic health, occupation, substance use, adverse childhood experiences (ACE), suicidal behaviors, and available resources). Findings revealed that over one-third (37%) screened positive for depression, one quarter (25%) for anxiety, and one-fifth (22%) for both. Depression and/or anxiety were significantly associated with ACE, low socio-economic status, non-standard occupation, poor somatic health, lack of social support, and suicidal ideation. More than half (62.9%) had visited their primary care provider in the last year, offering a key opportunity for mental health screening. The high prevalence rates of depression and/or anxiety symptoms among youth highlight the urgent need for sustained monitoring and comprehensive prevention and intervention strategies, including adversity prevention and support for families in difficulty.