Journal of Precision Biosciences
Precision sciences | Online ISSN 3064-9226
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RESEARCH ARTICLE   (Open Access)
Contents Vol 6 (1)

Prevalence of Depression and Stress Among Orphaned Children in Chennai: A Descriptive Study

Manimekalai P 1, Suresh Kanna S 1, Vijaykumar Edward 1, Anandan P 1*

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Journal of Precision Biosciences 6 (1) 1-4 https://doi.org/10.25163/biosciences.612168

Submitted: 16 July 2024 Revised: 13 September 2024  Published: 14 September 2024 

Abstract

Background: Depression in children is influenced by a combination of genetic, neurocognitive, and psychosocial factors. Orphaned children, particularly those residing in institutional settings, are at increased risk of developing depression due to the loss of parental support, exposure to trauma, and socio-economic challenges. The absence of emotional care, coupled with factors like bereavement, neglect, and unstable living environments, further exacerbates the likelihood of depressive symptoms. Methods: This descriptive study was conducted at the Good Life Centre Children’s Home in Tambaram, Chennai, from May to July 2019. A total of 30 orphaned children aged 5–17 years participated. Ethical approval was obtained from the Institutional Ethical Committee of Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, and informed consent was secured from legal guardians or caretakers. Inclusion criteria involved orphaned children with no history of mental retardation, while those with psychosocial disorders were excluded. Data were collected through structured questionnaires assessing depressive and stress symptoms and analyzed using descriptive statistics in Microsoft Excel. Results: Among the 30 children studied, one-third were under 13 years of age, while two-thirds were between 13 and 17 years. In the older age group, 45% exhibited mild depression, 5% moderate depression, and 50% showed mild stress or no clinical depression. In contrast, children aged 5–12 exhibited mild stress but no signs of clinical depression, potentially due to their limited capacity to articulate emotional distress and the nurturing environment provided by caretakers. Conclusion: The study highlights a notable prevalence of depression (20%) among orphaned children, particularly in adolescents. Factors contributing to these findings include early-life trauma, emotional neglect, and the institutional environment. The results emphasize the need for targeted mental health interventions, consistent emotional support, and early screening programs to mitigate the long-term psychological impact on orphaned children.

Keywords: Orphaned children, depression, psychosocial support, mental health, institutional care

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