COVID-19, adversities and depression among older adolescents in urban slums of India
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ABSTRACT: Purpose
We report findings from a survey on the mental health impact of COVID-19 factoring environmental adversities among older adolescents (15–19 years) living in urban slums in India. Methods
We report survey results of 3490 older adolescents. Patient Health Questionnaire-9 was used to assess depression, slum adversity questionnaire for slum conditions, and for COVID-19 infection we recorded self-reported positivity status. Sociodemographic details were also collected. Additional sub-group analyses of sample who had depression and tested positive for COVID-19 infection was conducted. We used univariate and multivariate logistic regression models to identify factors and COVID-19 infection that were associated with depression. Results
Adolescents with adversities were three times more likely to report depression. Adolescents who reported COVID-19 infection were about two times more likely to have depression. Sub-group analyses showed that adolescents having experienced adversities and girls were more likely to report depression following COVID-19 infection. Conclusions
There is a need for an intersectional research framework that incorporates stress arising out of a pandemic, social disadvantage, and systemic inequities. Such a framework will help to assess mental health issues of developmentally vulnerable groups residing in disadvantageous conditions.
SUBMITTER: Daniel M
PROVIDER: S-EPMC9214822 | biostudies-literature |
REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature
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