The mental health needs of 16 to 18 year old students in level 1 to 3 vocational education in Malta

Abstract

Background: The prevalence of mental health difficulties in adolescence is increasing. Nevertheless studies related to the mental health needs of older adolescents in Malta are rare. Aim: This study aims to understand the mental health needs of 16 to 18 year old students following Level 1 to 3 courses within post-secondary vocational education in Malta and Gozo, by identifying the prevalence of depression, stress, anxiety, eating disorders and Health Related Quality of Life (HRQOL) among MCAST students. The study also aims to identify factors hindering and supporting students’ mental health and outline ways of how their mental health needs can be met within College. Methods: A quantitative methodology is utilized. The KIDSCREEN-27. DASS-21, SCOFF questionnaire and a Demographic and personal variable questionnaire were completed by a sample of 422 students attending courses at Levels 1-3 during a lesson at MCAST. Results were brought out via statistical analysis. Results: 64.4% of students were found to be struggling with at least one of the mental health conditions assessed. 36.7% of students reported a suspected Eating Disorder. Prevalence of depression, anxiety and stress corresponding to a moderate, severe or extremely severe section of the population were 43.3%, 48.8% and 29.3% respectively. Students had a lower HRQOL than the reference population indicated by European norm data. Risk and protective factors identified include female gender, poverty, sexual orientation, whether students live with both parents, past school experiences, relationships with others and presence of suspected or diagnosed conditions or disabilities, among others. Conclusion: Students in lower post-secondary levels of vocational education in Malta are a vulnerable group. They report a high presence of risk factors, low HRQOL and high prevalence of mental health difficulties. It is recommended that MCAST supports students through a whole-school approach to mental health based on universal, selective and indicated interventions.