ABSTRACT
Objective: This study aimed to measure depression among children and adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic in Hanoi, Vietnam and its associated factors by using the Short Mood and Feelings Questionnaire (SMFQ) instrument. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study among students from grades 6 to 9 within two secondary schools in Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. A structured questionnaire was used, including information about personal characteristics, perception of COVID-19, and SMFQ. Factor analysis, Multivariate logistic and Tobit regression models were used. Results: Among 2378 students, 8.8% had depressive symptoms. The mean SMFQ score was 4.5 (SD=5.0). Being female, studying in higher grades, perceived low household income, higher perceived impacts of COVID-19 on health and higher perceived impacts of COVID-19-related quarantine on life were positively associated with factors' scores, SMFQ score and depressive symptoms. Meanwhile, having better academic performance, living with parents and having higher perceived knowledge about COVID-19 were negatively associated with factors scores, SMFQ score and depressive symptoms. Conclusions: Depressive symptoms were common among secondary school students in Hanoi, Vietnam, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Tailored interventions to improve pandemic-related knowledge and family and school support should be warranted for the students to enhance their mental well-being.
ABSTRACT
Introduction: The objective of the current study was to examine the rate of high school students at risk of anxiety disorder during the COVID-19 pandemic in Vietnam, as well as the coping strategies utilized within this demographic. Methods: An evaluation was conducted through the utilization of mixed methods, consisting of a combination of a cross-sectional study and in-depth interviews. In this study, a sample of 3,910 students from 13 high schools in Hanoi, Vietnam were selected for participation. The measurement of symptoms of anxiety disorder was conducted through the application of the seven-item General Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7) scale. To comprehend the underlying causes of anxiety and the various coping mechanisms employed, in-depth interviews were conducted. Results: The findings indicate a prevalence rate of anxiety disorder symptoms among students at 40.6% The prevalence rates of mild, moderate, and severe anxiety symptoms were found to be 23.9%, 10.9%, and 5.8%, respectively. In-depth interviews uncovered multiple sources of anxiety experienced by high school students, namely their academic performance, social interactions, prejudicial attitudes from their social circle, and familial expectations. Numerous coping strategies were then documented. Discussion: The current investigation ascertained that there exists a moderate level of anxiety amongst high school students in Hanoi, Vietnam during the COVID-19 outbreak. Furthermore, this study configured potential indicators to identify vulnerable individuals and further suggests the development of targeted interventions.