BACKGROUND

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is an important public health problem among adolescents and young adults, and its increasing prevalence underscores the need for region-specific and age-specific interventions. Despite its increasing burden, comprehensive data on regional and longitudinal trends in MDD among adolescents are scarce. This study analyzed global, regional, and national trends in MDD incidence, prevalence, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) among individuals aged 10-24 from 1990 to 2021, while examining differences by gender, age, socio-demographic factors, and emerging risk factors to guide targeted mental health strategies.

METHODS

With data from the 2021 Global Burden of Disease Study, we conducted an analysis of age-standardized incidence, prevalence, and DALYs due to MDD by sex, age group, and 21 geographic regions with a special focus on sociodemographic index (SDI) levels, which measures development on a scale from low to high. Key risk factors, such as bullying and intimate partner violence, were also assessed in order to understand their contribution to the burden of MDD.

RESULTS

Between 1990 and 2021, the global burden of MDD increased substantially. Prevalence rose by 56.36% globally, particularly among men and young adults aged 20-24 years, with the largest increases observed in Eastern Sub-Saharan Africa (184.26% increase). Incidence grew by 56.11%, with Eastern Sub-Saharan Africa experiencing the steepest rise compared to slower increases in other regions. DALYs also increased by 56.32%, with the greatest burden observed in Eastern Sub-Saharan Africa. Bullying and intimate partner violence were leading contributors to DALYs across all regions. Bullying and childhood sexual abuse increased MDD-related DALYs, with bullying peaking at ages 10-14, while childhood sexual abuse had a higher impact on females, rising sharply after 2006. Post- 2020, all metrics (prevalence, incidence, and DALYs) rose sharply, particularly in high-SDI regions, likely due to the specific impacts of the COVID- 19 pandemic, such as prolonged lockdowns, increased social isolation, and disruptions to mental health services.

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights the need for culturally sensitive mental health policies focusing on prevention and early intervention, while also providing insights to improve resource allocation and support further research on adolescent mental health.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Not applicable.