Prevalence and Patterns of Anxiety, Depressive, Hyperactivity, and Inattention Symptoms Among Secondary and High School Students

 **Prevalence and Patterns of Anxiety, Depressive, Hyperactivity, and Inattention Symptoms Among Secondary and High School Students: A Cross-Sectional Study**

Adolescent mental health is an increasingly critical issue, with anxiety, depression, hyperactivity, and inattention symptoms becoming more prevalent among youth worldwide. This article explores the findings of a recent cross-sectional study that assessed the mental health status of secondary and high school students. The study’s results underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions in educational and healthcare systems to support adolescent well-being.

**1. Introduction**

Adolescence is a formative period characterized by significant physical, emotional, and social development. During this stage, mental health conditions often emerge, potentially affecting educational performance, social relationships, and long-term outcomes into adulthood. Alarmingly, data from recent years suggest a rising trend in mental health disorders among school-aged children, exacerbated by socio-academic pressures, technology use, and global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

A cross-sectional study conducted in early 2025 evaluated the prevalence and patterns of anxiety, depressive symptoms, hyperactivity, and inattention among students in secondary and high schools. The research aimed to identify the scale of these issues and offer guidance for future policy and intervention strategies.

**2. Methodology**

 **2.1 Study Design**

This was a cross-sectional observational study involving a large, demographically diverse sample of students from urban and rural schools. The study was conducted between January and March 2025.

 **2.2 Participants**

* **Sample Size**: Over 3,500 students aged 12–18 years.

* **Locations**: Public and private schools in multiple regions to reflect varied socioeconomic backgrounds.

* **Inclusion Criteria**: Students currently enrolled in full-time education and with parental consent to participate.

**2.3 Instruments Used**

* **Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item (GAD-7) scale**

* **Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9)**

* **Vanderbilt ADHD Diagnostic Teacher Rating Scale (VADTRS)**

* **Sociodemographic questionnaire** to assess family environment, screen time, academic stress, and physical activity.

**3. Results**

**3.1 Prevalence of Symptoms**

* **Anxiety**: 31.2% reported moderate to severe symptoms.

* **Depression**: 27.8% scored within the moderate to severe range on the PHQ-9.

* **Hyperactivity**: 22.5% of students exhibited notable hyperactive behaviors.

* **Inattention**: 19.6% showed significant signs of attention deficits.

**3.2 Gender Differences**

* **Females** reported higher rates of anxiety and depression.

* **Males** were more likely to exhibit hyperactivity and inattention.

**3.3 Age Trends**

* Mental health issues peaked in students aged 14–16, coinciding with the transition from lower to upper secondary school and increased academic demands.

**3.4 Contributing Factors**

* **High screen time (>6 hours/day)** was associated with elevated inattention and depressive symptoms.

* **Academic pressure**, including exams and expectations, was a major stressor across all mental health indicators.

* **Parental support and communication** were inversely correlated with mental health issues, suggesting a protective effect.

**4. Discussion**

**4.1 Alarming Rise in Mental Health Concerns**

The study confirms that a substantial portion of secondary and high school students are grappling with mental health challenges. These findings align with global trends showing increased rates of psychological distress among adolescents.

**4.2 Need for Early Detection**

Timely identification of mental health symptoms through school-based screenings can lead to early intervention, potentially preventing escalation into chronic disorders.

**4.3 Role of Schools and Educators**

Educators can play a pivotal role in recognizing changes in behavior, academic performance, and social interactions. Training teachers to identify signs of anxiety, depression, or ADHD-like symptoms could bridge gaps in mental health services.

**4.4 Importance of Family Involvement**

Parental awareness and open lines of communication significantly influence student mental health. Family-based interventions, including workshops and counseling, are essential.

**5. Recommendations**

**5.1 Policy-Level Interventions**

* Incorporate **mental health education** into school curricula.

* Implement **mandatory mental health screenings** at key academic stages.

* Fund **school psychologists** and mental health counselors in educational institutions.

**5.2 Preventive Strategies**

* Encourage **physical activity** and reduce screen time through awareness campaigns.

* Promote **peer-support programs** and mentorship to foster resilience.

* Establish **stress management workshops** during exam periods.

**5.3 Research and Monitoring**

Longitudinal studies should track mental health trends over time, examining the impact of interventions and policy changes.

**6. Conclusion**

This study paints a sobering picture of adolescent mental health in 2025, highlighting the pressing need for systemic change. Addressing anxiety, depression, hyperactivity, and inattention requires coordinated efforts from educators, families, policymakers, and healthcare providers. By investing in early detection and holistic support systems, we can better safeguard the mental well-being of future generations.

**7. References**

1. American Psychological Association. (2024). *Stress in America: Youth under pressure.*

2. World Health Organization. (2023). *Adolescent mental health.*

3. Smith, J., & Lee, A. (2025). *Patterns of Adolescent Psychopathology in School Settings*. Journal of Adolescent Health.

4. National Institute of Mental Health. (2024). *ADHD and adolescent behavior*.

5. Muser Press. (2025). *Prevalence and Patterns of Mental Health Symptoms in High School Students*.