Các vấn đề sức khỏe tâm thần ở học sinh trung học phổ thông tại thành phố Hồ Chí Minh: So sánh giữa hệ chính quy và hệ giáo dục thường xuyên

Abstract

High school age is considered a critical developmental period during which many mental health problems (MHPs) commonly emerge. In Vietnam, the education system consists of two distinct modalities: mainstream formal education and continuing education, each with unique characteristics that may differentially influence students’ mental health in different ways. This cross-sectional study was conducted among 2.631 high school students in Ho Chi Minh City to compare the prevalence of MHPs between the two educational modalities. A multilevel cluster sampling method was employed, and data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire that included sociodemographic characteristics, academic factors, and mental health indicators. The prevalence of MHPs varied between the two groups, with higher rates observed in the formal education system (22.4% - 53.4%) when compared with the continuing education system (18.7% - 47.1%). Univariate analysis revealed statistically significant differences in depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation between the two educational modalities. However, after adjusting for potential confounders in multivariate analysis, no significant difference remained. These findings highlight the need for mental health support and intervention programs for students in both educational systems.