Evaluation of Correlation between Depression, Anxiety and Stress, as DASS-21 Sub Scales, and High-Risk Behaviors in Teenagers, Living in Torghabeh-Shandiz Town of Iran

摘要

Introduction: Adolescence is one of the most striking periods of life which is associated with tumultuous transition and “storm and stress”. During adolescence, health and resilience moods are in close link with many high-risk behaviors which threats mental health. This period is discussed as a critical period for early onset of mental illnesses. Thus, it was aimed to evaluate the correlation of depression, anxiety and stress with some high-risk behaviors in teenagers, living in Torghabeh-Shandiz town. Materials and Methods: Ninety teenaged students including 50 girls and 40 boys were selected among all the high schools of the city through a two-stage sampling procedure and were studied in a cross-sectional study. A validated 21-item Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21) as well as a questionnaire including demographic characteristics and high- risk behaviors history were filled by students. Data were analyzed using SPSS software version 16. The probability values of less than 5% were assumed as significant. Results: Different degrees of depression, anxiety and stress were reported in 43.3%, 43.3% and 38.9% of students, respectively. Although not statistically significant in any of the triple disorders, girls showed higher involvement in all of them. Among high-risk behaviors, Cigarette smoking was significantly correlated with all the depression, anxiety and stress subscales. There was a significant correlation between opium consumption and stress. Qalyan (hookah) smoking did not reveal any significant correlation with any of DASS-21 subscales. Regular alcohol consumption showed significantly higher depression in teenagers. Premarital sexual behaviors had significant correlation with stress and depression subscales. Conclusion: Failure to attention to these mental conditions in adolescents and risk factors may result in degrees of life dissatisfaction in the community. Running on-school mental screening programs is recommended.