Prevalence and socio-demographic correlates of mental health indices among schoolchildren in Albania

Aim: Our objective was to assess the prevalence and socio-demographic distribution of a wide range of mental health indices among Albanian children. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Albania in 2022, including a nationwide representative sample of 5454 schoolchildren aged 11, 13 and 15 years (~52% girls; response rate 96%). Data on 10 mental health indices were gathered, along with socio-demographic factors of schoolchildren. General linear model and binary logistic regression were employed for assessing the associations of mental health indices with socio-demographic factors. Results: Overall, the prevalence of poorer mental health indices was 5.2% for not good health, 61% for feeling low, 59% for irritability, 56% for nervousness, 33% for sleep difficulties, 31% for loneliness, 16% for low mood, 36% for low self-efficacy, 15% for anxiety and 35% for negative COVID-19 impact on mental health. Girls, older schoolchildren and those whose fathers were unemployed exhibited a significantly higher prevalence of poorer mental health for most of the indices. Children from rural areas and those from less affluent families had a higher prevalence of poorer self-rated health. Conclusions: Our study sheds light on the concerning prevalence of various mental health indices among Albanian children. The main findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to address these challenges, particularly among vulnerable groups such as girls, older children and those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Urgent action is necessary to support the mental well-being of all children, especially those who are at the highest risk.