The Association Between Interpersonal Factors, Stress, Anxiety, and Depression Among Junior High School Students in the Greater Accra Region

Abstract

This study investigates depression among junior high school students in Ghana’s Greater Accra Region, focusing on interpersonal and mental health factors, addressing a crucial research gap in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Analyzing data from 800 students, we found anxiety to be a significant predictor of depression, with over threefold higher odds for students experiencing anxiety. Gender differences in depression prevalence were observed. These findings challenge the universality of the interpersonal theory of suicide constructs among Ghanaian youth, emphasizing the need for culturally sensitive mental health research and intervention. This study contributes to adolescent mental health understanding in Ghana, highlighting the cultural and developmental contexts’ importance. Further research is essential to better understand the factors affecting adolescent mental health in LMICs.