Study Finds One in Four Adolescents in Schools are at Risk of Mental Health Illness

New Delhi: A recent study has found that one in every four school-going adolescents is at risk of developing mental health illness, highlighting the need for early screening and intervention. The study was conducted by researchers at the Indira Gandhi Medical College and Research Institute, Puducherry.

The findings, published in the Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care, assessed 329 adolescents aged 13-17 years from government schools in both urban and rural areas of Puducherry. It revealed that 25.5 per cent of the participants were at risk of mental health illness.

The study aimed to determine and compare the prevalence and risk factors associated with mental health conditions among urban and rural adolescents in the region. Adolescents were screened for mental health status as part of the research.

According to the study, urban adolescents scored higher in terms of hyperactivity and emotional symptoms when compared to those from rural areas. Researchers also observed a significant difference between urban and rural students in relation to family monthly income and parents' occupation among those found to be at risk.

“Adolescence is a crucial period during which biological and psychosocial changes occur in an individual. One-fourth of the adolescents were found to be at risk of mental health illness, so periodic screening could be done at schools, for early identification and proper treatment of mental disorders,” said researchers, including Dr. Kavita Vasudevan, Head of Community Medicine at the institute.

Teachers involved in the study reported that behaviour changes and a decline in academic performance were the most common warning signs among students potentially facing mental health issues.

The researchers stressed the importance of recognizing and addressing mental health concerns early. “Intervention should be made at all levels including school teachers and family members and make them aware of the importance of mental health status,” the team said.

They also recommended introducing life skill education in schools to help students cope with mental health challenges. The study emphasizes the role of both schools and families in supporting adolescent mental well-being through awareness and structured interventions.