Depression among Junior High School Students in Muang District, Chiang Mai Province

Abstract

Objective

: To determine the prevalence and associated factors of depression among junior high school students in Muang District, Chiang Mai Province.

Method :

A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in 5 high schools at Muang District, Chiang Mai Province by using self-reported questionaires. Measurement used 1) the Thai version of children’s depression inventory (CDI-Thai) using cutoff point at 21 2) demographic, family and psychosocial data record form, and 3) the Thai version of Rosenberg self-esteem scale. Statistical analysis use percentage and odds ratio (OR)

Result :

The study population was 1,107 students comprising 47% male and 53% female. The mean age of subjects was 14 years old and the prevalence of depression was 14.6% The associated factors of depression were poor academic achievement (grade point average lower than 2.0 in the previousfiscal year)(OR 1.8, 95% CI 1.1-3.1, p < 0.05), history of attempting suicide (OR 3.0, 95% CI 1.1-7.7, p < 0.05), and low self - esteem (OR 14.1, 95% CI 8.0-25.0, p < 0.001).

Conclusion :

Depression in in the junior high school students was found 14.6% and ascociated factors were earn low grade point averages, have low self-esteem or suicidal thought. Consequently, raising self-esteem should be considered for the mental health promotion in order to reduce the depression rate in adolescents.