Prevalence of Anxiety, Depression, and Substance Use among Secondary School Students Aged 10 - 24 Years in the Southwest Region of Cameroon

Background: Mental health disorders represent a significant public health concern, particularly among adolescents. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of mental health disorders and associated factors, as well as knowledge of mental health, among secondary school students in the Southwest Region of Cameroon. 

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 958 secondary school students. Data were collected on demographics, knowledge of mental health disorders, and the presence of anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, and suicidal thoughts. Descriptive statistics and univariate and multivariate logistic regression were used. 

Results: The overall prevalence of mental health disorders (anxiety, depression, and substance use) was 73.6%, with high rates of anxiety (54.7%), depression (57.3%), and substance use disorders (42.2%). Knowledge of mental health disorders was adequate for 55.3% of the students. Males demonstrated lower odds of adequate knowledge than females (OR = 0.730, 95% CI: 0.559 – 0.954), and residents of Tiko had lower odds than residents of Limbe (OR = 0.368, 95% CI: 0.213 – 0.639). Younger age groups and the presence of suicidal thoughts were significantly associated with mental health disorders according to multivariate analysis. 

Conclusion: This study revealed a high prevalence of anxiety, depression, and substance use among students. 55.3% of students demonstrated adequate knowledge of mental health. Disparities exist in terms of gender and location. These findings highlight the urgent need for mental health awareness programs, especially for vulnerable populations.

Keywords: Mental Health Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Substance Use, Students