Depression is more common than expected among middle school students

The study, titled “Universal depressive symptom screening in middle schools in Istanbul: An epidemiologic study” and co-authored by Assoc. Prof. Nicel Yıldız Silahlı of Istanbul Medipol University School of Medicine, examined the prevalence of depressive symptoms among middle school students in Istanbul. The research, noteworthy for its large sample size, was published in the scientific journal Journal of Affective Disorders.

The study conducted mental health screenings in a broad group of students attending public and private middle schools across various districts of Istanbul. The findings demonstrate that depressive symptoms are observed at higher-than-expected rates during early adolescence, underscoring the critical need for school-based mental health screenings.

According to the research, a considerable number of students exhibited symptoms such as mood changes, attention problems, loss of interest, and feelings of hopelessness indicators commonly associated with depression. Higher levels of depressive symptoms were found to be associated with limited social support, academic stress, exposure to bullying, and problems in family communication.

DEPRESSION RISK IS HIGHER AMONG GIRL STUDENTS 
Analyses conducted within the study revealed that depressive symptoms among a significant portion of middle school students exceeded the threshold values of screening scales. This finding suggests that depression can emerge not only in high school or university years but also at much younger ages. Notably, depressive symptom rates were higher among female students compared to male students, and the risk increased considerably when mood variability and anxiety were combined.

The study also showed that factors such as academic workload, exam pressure, sleep patterns, social media use, and family relationships influenced depression risk.

SCHOOL-BASED MENTAL HEALTH SCREENINGS ARE CRITICAL FOR EARLY INTERVENTION
The study emphasized that the depression screening tools used are effective instruments for early detection and timely referral, and that school environments offer a significant advantage in identifying depressive symptoms in children and adolescents. Since students spend a large part of their day at school, teachers can detect behavioural changes early, and school counsellors can identify at-risk groups in a timely manner—contributing to the effectiveness of school-based screenings.

Silahlı stated, “Universal screenings conducted at the middle school level facilitate both the early detection of depression and easier access to professional support for students at risk.”

AWARENESS OF FAMILIES AND TEACHERS IS CRUCIAL IN REDUCING DEPRESSION RISK
The study highlights the need for families and teachers to take emotional changes and withdrawal behaviours in children seriously. Persistent unhappiness, loss of interest, declining academic performance, or social isolation are noted as early warning signs of depression, while healthy communication within the family–student–school triangle is described as having a protective effect.

The research also emphasizes that improving mental health literacy, strengthening school counselling services, and expanding community-based mental health programs can significantly contribute to the psychological well-being of students.

ASSOC. PROF. SILAHLI: EARLY MENTAL HEALTH DIAGNOSIS SHOULD BE A SOCIETAL PRIORITY
Assoc. Prof. Nicel Yıldız Silahlı, one of the principal investigators of the study, stated that the findings carry important implications for school administrators, families, and healthcare professionals, adding:

“This study provides scientific evidence showing that depression rates among middle school students in Istanbul may be higher than previously assumed. In this context, early detection of depression in children and adolescents plays a critical role in preventing future mental health problems. Depression should be addressed not only as an individual issue but also as a societal concern.”

*At the time of publication of the article referenced in the news report, Assoc. Prof. Nicel Yıldız Silahlı was a member of the faculty at Istanbul Medipol University School of Medicine. Silahlı currently continues to serve at Kocaeli University.