Understanding Adolescent Anxiety: Insights from Karachi's Peri-Urban Areas

Anxiety among adolescents is a growing concern worldwide, with numerous studies highlighting various contributing factors. A recent study conducted in the peri-urban areas of Karachi, Pakistan, sheds light on the alarming levels of anxiety among school-going adolescents. This research offers valuable insights for practitioners aiming to enhance their understanding and intervention strategies for adolescent mental health.

The Study at a Glance

The study titled "Anxiety levels among school-going adolescents in peri-urban areas of Karachi, Pakistan" utilized the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) scale to assess anxiety levels among adolescents aged 10-19 years. Conducted over two months in three densely populated peri-urban areas of Karachi, the study involved 544 students with a response rate of 80%.

Key Findings

• Gender Disparity: The study found that 57% of participants were female, with females showing higher levels of moderate to severe anxiety compared to males.
• Parenting Style: Strict parenting was significantly associated with higher anxiety levels among adolescents.
• Sedentary Lifestyle: Adolescents who spent more time on video games and had no physical activity showed increased anxiety levels.
• Screen Time: Excessive screen time was linked to heightened anxiety symptoms.
• Canteen Food Consumption: Adolescents consuming canteen food were more likely to exhibit moderate to severe anxiety compared to those eating homemade meals.
• Family Smoking Habits: The presence of smokers in the family was associated with higher anxiety levels in adolescents.

Implications for Practitioners

This study highlights several factors that practitioners should consider when addressing adolescent anxiety. Understanding the role of gender, parenting styles, lifestyle choices, and family habits can guide interventions and support strategies. Practitioners are encouraged to implement comprehensive screening and counseling programs tailored to these specific factors.

The Role of Online Therapy

TinyEYE provides online therapy services that can be instrumental in addressing these issues. By offering accessible and flexible support options, online therapy can help mitigate some of the contributing factors identified in the study. Practitioners should consider integrating online therapy into their approach to reach a broader audience and provide continuous support.

The Path Forward

The findings from this study underscore the need for further research and targeted interventions. Practitioners are encouraged to explore additional studies and develop strategies that address the unique challenges faced by adolescents in peri-urban areas. By doing so, we can work towards reducing anxiety levels and improving overall mental health outcomes for young individuals.

Anxiety levels among school-going adolescents in peri-urban areas of Karachi, Pakistan