RISK OF CHRONIC MENTAL HEALTH CONDITIONS IN DEMOGRAPHIC VARIABLES OF YOUNG ADULT: A META-ANALYSIS
Abstract
Background: Chronic mental health conditions among young adults represent a growing public health concern. Despite increasing attention, fragmented studies, varied methodologies, and inconsistent diagnostic criteria have hindered clear conclusions about prevalence and risk factors. This study employs a meta-analysis approach to synthesize available research and provide robust evidence on the risk of chronic mental health conditions in young adults. The aim of the paper is to determine the fixed and random effect models on the risk of chronic mental health conditions in demographic variables of young adults, assess heterogeneity measures, and validate the models through publication bias analysis and funnel plot assessments.
Methodology: Following PRISMA guidelines, a systematic search of Google Scholar and PubMed was conducted, identifying 321,438 studies. After screening, 12 studies meeting the inclusion criteria were included in the meta-analysis. Data were extracted regarding odds ratios (ORs), confidence intervals (CIs), and demographic variables. Both fixed and random effects models were applied based on heterogeneity assessments. Heterogeneity was evaluated using Q-statistics and I² statistics, while publication bias was assessed via funnel plots.
Results: The meta-analysis revealed a pooled odds ratio (OR) of 1.78 (95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 1.45–2.12) for the risk of chronic mental health conditions among young adults. This indicates that young adults have a 78% increased risk compared to controls. The heterogeneity among studies was moderate to high (I² = 56%), suggesting variability in effect sizes across studies. Funnel plot analysis showed minimal publication bias. Subgroup analyses by demographic variables such as age, gender, and occupation further highlighted significant risk differences.
Conclusion: The findings highlight that young adults are at a considerable risk for chronic mental health issues, influenced by demographic factors. These results underscore the need for targeted preventive strategies, early interventions, and the development of comprehensive policies aimed at mental health promotion in young populations. Meta-analytical evidence supports the importance of demographic-specific mental health strategies to mitigate long-term impacts.
Keywords:
Meta-analysis, Young Adults, Chronic Mental Health Conditions, Random Effects Model, Confidence Interval, Effect Size, Heterogeneity, Publication BiasDownloads
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Copyright (c) 2025 Adehi M.U., Chaku S.E., Madaki R.M., Adenomon M.O.
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