Adolescent mental health: analysis using YP-CORE test in School health services in Croatia

Abstract

Abstract Issue Adolescent mental health problems are a leading health problem in this population and remain unrecognized for a long time. The aim of this study was to examine the mental health problems with YP-CORE test as a part of regular school health periodic examination of first-year secondary school students (ages 15-16). Description of Problem Study included 392 first-year Zagreb secondary school students (74.5% girls) academic year 2019/2020. Data were collected by YP-CORE test ten questions about feeling over the last week. The students provided informed consent, and testing was done during regular periodic examinations. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results At risk of mental health problems were 7.5% of girls (22/292) and 2.0% of boys. Nine girls (3.1%) had a low overall score, ≤ 19 points, which would mean little risk but had a positive answer to the question 'I've thought of hurting myself'. Ten girls (3.3%) had a score of ≥ 20, which meant an increased risk and a particularly positive answer was the 'I've thought of hurting myself' question. Three girls (1%) had a score of ≥ 20, which meant an increased risk with no additional risk of auto-aggression. The results in the boys are completely different. Two students, 2% (2/100) had a total score of ≥ 17, which meant an increased risk and a particularly positive answer was the 'I've thought of hurting myself' question. All recognized risk students are immediately involved in the counseling of the School and University Medicine Counseling Services provided by every secondary school in Croatia. Lessons The results of the study showed that mental health problems have 6.1% secondary school students with gender differences, girls 7.5%, boys 2%. School health service developed a protocol for students at increased risk. The first step is school medicine specialist interview with the student, then with the parents and the student, and second step including school staff and other professionals. Key messages Early identification of mental health problems, timely intervention and continuous monitoring of mental health among secondary school students in Croatia. Counseling service for students should be available within the school health service, implementing preventative measures and working closely with other services and professionals.