Prevalence of Undiagnosed Anxiety and Depression Among Urban Bangladeshi American Adolescents:A Retrospective Analysis.

INTRODUCTION Undiagnosed anxiety and depression during adolescence can lead to significant impairment and negative health outcomes. This study aims to examine the prevalence of anxiety and depression symptoms among undiagnosed Bangladeshi American adolescents (BAAs) and determine their association with comorbidities and patterns of healthcare utilization.

Methods

A retrospective 12-month chart review was conducted examining adolescent BAAs' scores on depression (PHQ-9), anxiety screenings (GAD-7), comorbidities, and types of health visits. Descriptive and bivariate analyses were utilized to characterize the sample.

Results

Of the sample (n = 267 BAAs), 77.5% had moderate anxiety symptoms, and 81.3% had moderate depressive symptoms. 137 participants (51.3%) reported concurrent moderate anxiety/depression symptoms and 16 (6.0%) reported concurrent high anxiety/depression symptoms.

Conclusion

Despite routine primary care screenings resulting in high numbers of positive clinical screens for anxiety/depression, formal diagnosis for BAAs was inadequate. It is crucial for clinicians to improve mental healthcare delivery to address mental health disparities.