Prevalence and associated factors of anxiety disorders among secondary school-going adolescents in Mbarara City, Uganda: a cross-sectional study.
Abstract
Background: Social anxiety disorder (SAD) is a common mental health condition that can interfere with adolescents’ social functioning, academic participation, and overall well-being. However, evidence on the burden and factors associated with SAD among school-going adolescents in Uganda remains limited. This study assessed the prevalence and factors associated with SAD among secondary school-going adolescents in Mbarara City. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 380 secondary school-going adolescents in selected schools in Mbarara City. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire assessing socio-demographic characteristics, psychosocial factors, and symptoms of anxiety disorders. Data were analyzed using Stata version 19. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize participant characteristics and the prevalence of SAD, while cross-tabulations and tests of association were used to assess factors associated with SAD. Statistical significance was considered at a 5% level. Results: Among the 380 adolescents enrolled, 266 (70.0%) reported SAD. SAD was significantly associated with sex (p<0.001), school type (p=0.003), academic pressure (p=0.006), bullying (p=0.024), reported mental health conditions (p=0.030), neighborhood safety (p<0.001), and awareness of mental health programmes (p=0.037). SAD was more prevalent among adolescents reporting academic pressure, bullying, mental health conditions, and unsafe neighborhoods, as well as those attending public schools. Conclusion: SAD represents an important mental health concern among school-going adolescents in Mbarara City. School-based screening, counselling, bullying prevention, and supportive learning environments may facilitate early identification and support. Recommendations: Schools and health providers should strengthen age-appropriate mental health education and ensure that adolescents receive clear information on available mental health programmes and where to seek support. Awareness activities should be accompanied by accessible counselling, screening, and referral services delivered through confidential, adolescent-friendly channels to promote early help-seeking.