Nearly 26% of teenagers in Beirut suffer psychological disorders

A study released by the Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology scientific journal on May 31, has recorded the prevalence of mental and behavioral disorders amongst adolescents  in Lebanon at a  level higher than that registered in other Arab countries. The study which targeted some 510 teenagers aged between 11 to 17 years indicated that nearly 26.1% of youngsters in the greater Beirut district suffer from one type of disorder or the other, while noting that the required medical services are inaccessible, and with only 6% of patients receiving specialized care. In the findings, 14% of the respondents suffer one type of mental or behavioral illness, 8% are diagnosed with two disorders, 3% with three and 0.8% have experienced four or more disorders. The types and prevalence of these disorder are as follows: mood swings (at a rate of 6.7%); anxiety (13.1%); attention deficit hyperactivity disorder ADHD (10.2%) and behavioral disorders (4.7%). The survey recommended in conclusion the following: understand the absence of coverage of the necessary medical treatment for similar patients; identify the financial and moral obstacles impeding proper access to psychotherapy; observe and control school bullying and its detrimental effects, as well as, promote awareness regarding the diagnosis of mental and psychological disorders in teens who suffer health problems. (As Safir, July 5, 2016)