Prevalence estimates of depression and anxiety symptoms among adolescents in Bermuda, according to age, gender and race.

Abstract

Purpose: Common mental disorders (CMDs) among adolescents, such as anxiety and depression, are associated with significant impairment and have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Caribbean, including Bermuda, lacks sufficient CMD prevalence data to inform policy and service provision for adolescent mental health. This study sought to estimate the prevalence of depression and anxiety symptoms among adolescents in Bermuda.

Methods: This cross-sectional study surveyed middle and high school students aged 10-18 years in Bermuda. 15 schools participated in data collection. Online surveys conducted between November 2022 - June 2023 gathered demographic data and assessed depression symptoms using the PHQ-8, anxiety symptoms using the GAD-7, and impairment across daily activities, school/work and relationships.

Results: Of a total of 2,526 adolescents in Bermuda who self-reported depression and anxiety symptoms, the estimate prevalence of moderate to severe depression symptoms was 31.3%. Prevalence was significantly higher among older adolescents, females and those that identified as Black or Minority. Among the 25.2% who reported moderate to severe anxiety symptoms, prevalence was significantly higher among older adolescents, females and those who did not identify as Minority. Furthermore, 65.6% of adolescents self-reporting moderate to severe depression symptoms reported comorbid moderate to severe anxiety symptoms. The rates of impairment for depression and anxiety were 22.6% and 19.1%, respectively.

Conclusion: The prevalence of depressive and anxiety symptoms among Bermuda's adolescents is high, surpassing post-pandemic global averages. Findings improve our understanding of CMDs in the Caribbean and provide direction for improved policy and service provision in Bermuda.