Prevalence and comorbidity of anxiety and depression in adolescents: A healthcare setting experience

Abstract

Background: Adolescence is a critical developmental phase from ages 10 to 19, influencing lifestyle behaviors with lasting health implications. The World Health Organization identifies youth health risk behaviors (HRBs) like physical inactivity and emotional disorders, particularly anxiety and depression, which affect academic performance and quality of life. Comorbidity is common, with significant overlaps between anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder, highlighting the need for tailored interventions across diverse populations. Aim of the study: The study aims to investigate the prevalence and comorbidity of anxiety and depression in adolescents. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Psychiatry, International Medical College and Hospital, Tongi, Gazipur, Bangladesh. It targeted 12-19-year-old adolescents over one year, enrolling 150 participants. Married adolescents were excluded from the study. Data were collected using a structured, pre-tested interview schedule. Informed consent was obtained from parents and assent from minors. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS (V-26.0), with significance set at P