Global School-Based Student Health Survey 2016-Bahrain: Mental health

Abstract

Background: The Global school-based student health survey (GSHS) was developed to help countries measure and assess students' health behaviors and protective factors. This report discusses results from the first GSHS carried out in Bahrain during 2015-2016 by the Ministry of Education in collaboration with World Health Organization (WHO) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Methods: The GSHS includes students aged 13-17 years and employed a two-stage sample design involving a school and class level. 64 public and private schools were sampled out of 162 schools, and 320 classes of students in grades 7-11 were selected. Students completed a questionnaire addressing mental health, protective factors, sexual behaviors, violence, and unintentional injury. Results: 7,143 (89%) of the 8,068 sampled students completed the questionnaire. Of the students who responded, 3,685 (51.1%) were males, and 5,843 (84.5%) were between the ages of 13 to 17 years old. 27.2% of students were physically attacked, 41.4% were in a physical fight, and 28.6% were bullied one or more times during the past 12 months. 38.1% of the students never or rarely wore a seatbelt when in a car, and 30.7% never or rarely wore a helmet when riding a bicycle. 16.2% of students felt lonely most of the time or always, and 15.2% seriously considered attempting suicide during the past 12 months. Conclusion: The study reported rates of violence, physical fights, bullying, and unsafe practices among school-Age children. Raising awareness regarding mental health and emotional well-being, assessment and support among school children is vital. Keywords: Bahrain, Mental health, School, School health, WHO