NATIONAL ADOLESCENT MENTAL HEALTH SURVEYS IN KENYA, INDONESIA AND VIETNAM: A CROSS NATIONAL STUDY OF MENTAL DISORDER PREVALENCE, MENTAL ILLNESS RISK FACTORS AND MENTAL HEALTH SERVICE USE IN ADOLESCENTS

Abstract

Background: The majority of adolescents globally live in low- and middle-income countries for which there are few reliable prevalence estimates of mental disorders. Mental disorders and substance use disorders are responsible for a greater burden of disease in young people living in high-income countries than any other health problem. The absence of reliable prevalence estimates for mental disorders in low- and middle-income countries prevents certainty for burden of disease estimates in low resource settings. Objectives: To provide an overview and results of the National Adolescent Mental Health Surveys (NAMHS). Methods: An international partnership was established between institutions in Australia, Kenya, Indonesia and Vietnam. In 2021, national household surveys of adolescents aged 10-17 years were conducted to measure the prevalence of mental disorders, risk factors and service use in Kenya, Indonesia and Vietnam. Representative samples of adolescents and their primary care givers were interviewed in their homes. The methods were similar to those used in the Australian Young Minds Matter Survey, which enables comparisons between the three countries and comparisons with the recent Australian Young Minds Matter Survey of adolescents. Findings: There was enormous cross-national variation in the prevalence of mental disorders, substance use, suicidality, risk factors for mental illness and service use. Compared to Australia, the prevalence of mental disorders and many of the risk factors in low- and middle-income countries is significantly lower. Conclusion: NAMHS provides the most detailed information available to date on adolescent mental health in low- and middle-income countries.