Psychological distress among a national sample of school adolescents in tonga: Prevalence and correlates

• Main Authors: Supa Pengpid, Karl Peltzer
• Other Authors: University of Limpopo
• Format: Article
• Published: 2022
• Subjects: Health Professions; Medicine; Neuroscience; Nursing
• Online Access: https://repository.li.mahidol.ac.th/handle/123456789/77110
• Institution: Mahidol University

This investigation was to estimate the prevalence and correlates of psychological distress (PD) among adolescent school children in Tonga. Data from the nationally representative cross-sectional 2017 Tonga Global School-Based Student Health Survey (GSHS) were analysed that included 3,333 adolescents (14 years = median age). Results indicate that the prevalence of PD was 18.9%, 20.0% among females and 18.0% among males. In adjusted logistic regression analysis, frequent bullying victimization, parental dis-respect of privacy, daily passive smoking, ever drunk, physical inactivity and leisure-time sedentary behaviour and fast food consumption were associated with PD. In addition, in univariate analysis, having been frequently physically attacked, involved in physical fighting, frequent experience of hunger, school truancy, tobacco use, cannabis use, injury and soft drink intake had higher odds for PD. Almost one in five students reported PD, and several associated variables were found that can be used for school mental health promotion.